Colombo: Zimbabwe delivered a stunning upset in the 2026 T20 World Cup on Thursday, February 13th, defeating powerhouse Australia by 23 runs in a result that has sent shockwaves through the tournament. The victory, secured at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, significantly impacts the Super 8 qualification picture in Group B.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Zimbabwe established a solid foundation thanks to a strong opening partnership. Brian Bennett anchored the innings with an unbeaten 64 runs off 56 balls. Tadiwanashe Marumani and Ryan Burl provided crucial support, building a competitive total. Despite facing physical challenges late in the innings, Sikandar Raza contributed a quickfire 25 runs off 13 balls, pushing Zimbabwe’s score to 169.
Australia’s reply faltered early, losing four key wickets for just 29 runs. Blessing Muzarabani was the architect of Australia’s collapse, claiming an impressive 4 wickets. Muzarabani reached a milestone during the match, taking his 100th T20 wicket. Travis Head and Cameron Green were both dismissed by Brad Evans, further compounding Australia’s problems.
A determined Matt Renshaw waged a lone battle for Australia, scoring 63 runs. He found some support from Glenn Maxwell, who added 31 runs, attempting to rebuild the innings. But, Ryan Burl’s dismissal of Maxwell halted their progress. Muzarabani then sealed the victory for Zimbabwe by taking the crucial wicket of a well-set Renshaw in the 19th over. Australia were eventually all out for 146 when Matthew Kuhnemann was run out, completing Zimbabwe’s triumph.
This win marks Zimbabwe’s first victory over Australia in an ICC tournament in 19 years. Australia’s hopes of reaching the Super 8 stage now hang in the balance, dependent on the results of their remaining matches against Sri Lanka and Oman. The result leaves Australia in third place in Group B.
zimbabwe pulled off a stunning upset against australia in the t20 world cup, shaking the tournament standings. The defeat leaves the kangaroos struggling to secure a super 8 spot, intensifying competition in the group stage race.
