In a thrilling encounter at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Zimbabwe pulled off one of the most memorable upsets in T20 World Cup history, defeating Australia by 23 runs in their Group B clash on February 13, 2026. This victory marks Zimbabwe’s first win over Australia in the tournament since 2007 and keeps their undefeated record against the Aussies in T20 World Cups intact. Led by a stellar bowling performance and solid batting, Zimbabwe showcased their potential as dark horses in the competition.
Zimbabwe’s Commanding Batting Display
Opting to bat first after Australia won the toss, Zimbabwe posted a competitive 169/2 in their 20 overs on a challenging pitch that favored disciplined bowling. Openers Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani set the foundation with a brisk 61-run partnership in just 7.3 overs. Marumani’s aggressive 35 off 21 balls provided early momentum, while Bennett anchored the innings with an unbeaten 64 from 56 deliveries – a patient knock that included calculated risks to keep the scoreboard ticking.
Ryan Burl contributed a valuable 35 in the middle overs, forming key partnerships, before captain Sikandar Raza unleashed a late blitz with an unbeaten 25 off just 13 balls. This finishing touch propelled Zimbabwe to what proved to be a defendable total, especially given the slow nature of the wicket. Australia’s bowlers, including Cameron Green (1-6), struggled to contain the flow of runs in the death overs.
Australia’s Early Collapse and Failed Recovery
Chasing 170, Australia were rocked early by Zimbabwe’s pace attack. Blessing Muzarabani, who earned Player of the Match honors for his career-best 4-17, along with Brad Evans (3-23), dismantled the top order inside the powerplay. Key wickets of Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, Tim David, and stand-in captain Travis Head left Australia reeling at 29/4.
A fighting 77-run stand between Matt Renshaw (65 off 44) and Glenn Maxwell (31 off 32) offered a glimmer of hope, but the required run rate climbed steadily. Once the partnership was broken, Australia’s innings unraveled, with Muzarabani returning to claim two more scalps. The Aussies were eventually bowled out for 146 in 19.3 overs, handing Zimbabwe a convincing 23-run victory.
Key Players and Standout Moments
- Blessing Muzarabani: The star of the show with 4-17, including crucial early breakthroughs that set the tone for Zimbabwe’s defense.
- Brian Bennett: His unbeaten 64 was the backbone of Zimbabwe’s innings, blending caution with aggression on a tricky surface.
- Brad Evans: Supported Muzarabani brilliantly with 3-23, ensuring Australia couldn’t mount a comeback.
- Matt Renshaw: Australia’s top scorer with 65, but his efforts weren’t enough to overhaul the target.
This match highlighted Zimbabwe’s all-round prowess – from disciplined batting to fiery bowling and sharp fielding – proving they can compete with the best on the global stage.
Implications for the Tournament
This upset throws Group B wide open, with Australia now under pressure to bounce back in their remaining matches. For Zimbabwe, it’s a massive confidence booster as they aim to progress further in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Video source: YouTube
Stay tuned for more updates from the T20 World Cup – cricket’s unpredictability is alive and well!
