Zimbabwe produced one of the biggest upsets of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. They defeated Australia by 23 runs in a gripping Group B match in Colombo. The result has thrown the group wide open.
Zimbabwe batted first and posted a strong 169 for 2 in 20 overs. Their top order batted with patience early on. They rotated the strike and avoided risky shots. Later, they attacked in the death overs and pushed the total to a challenging score.
Brian Bennett led the innings with a brave 64 not out. He stayed calm under pressure and finished the innings strongly. Other batters also made useful contributions to build the platform. The pitch was slow, but Zimbabwe adjusted well and ran hard between the wickets.
Blessing Muzarabani and Evans destroy Australia’s chase
Australia never fully recovered in the chase of 170. Blessing Muzarabani delivered a career-best bowling spell. He took 4 for 17 in his four overs. Brad Evans supported him brilliantly with 3 for 23, especially in the powerplay.
Australia lost early wickets and fell behind the required run rate. Matt Renshaw fought back with 65 off 44 balls and kept hopes alive for some time. However, wickets kept falling at the other end.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers used slower balls and accurate yorkers in the final overs. Their fielding was sharp and energetic. Australia were eventually bowled out for 146 and never looked in control of the chase.
Zimbabwe remain undefeated against Australia in T20 World Cups after this famous victory. The 23-run win is a proud moment for Zimbabwe cricket and boosts their Super Eight chances. Australia, meanwhile, now face pressure in the remaining group matches as the tournament intensifies.
