T20 World Cup 2026 | Zimbabwe Create Massive Upset With 23-Run Win vs Australia

Zimbabwe stunned Australia by 23 runs in a dominant all-round performance at the T20 World Cup 2026 in Colombo.

Zimbabwe produced a clinical performance to defeat Australia by 23 runs in the 19th Match of Group B at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on February 13 at the R. Premadasa Stadium. Defending 169, Zimbabwe bowled Australia out for 146 in 19.3 overs to secure a memorable win.

After being put in to bat, Zimbabwe posted a competitive 169/2 in their 20 overs. Brian Bennett anchored the innings with an unbeaten 64 off 56 balls, striking seven boundaries. Tadiwanashe Marumani provided early momentum with a brisk 35 off 21 balls, including seven fours, before falling to Marcus Stoinis.

Ryan Burl added a steady 35 from 30 deliveries, helping Zimbabwe build a solid platform. Captain Sikandar Raza delivered the late flourish with an unbeaten 25 off just 13 balls, including a six, as Zimbabwe finished strongly at a run rate of 8.45.

Australia Face Mega Disaster

Australia’s chase began disastrously. Josh Inglis fell for 8 in the second over, and the top order soon collapsed under disciplined bowling. Travis Head, Cameron Green, and Tim David were dismissed cheaply as Australia slumped to 29/4 inside five overs.

Blessing Muzarabani led the charge with a superb spell of 4 for 17 in four overs, consistently troubling the batters with pace and accuracy.

Glenn Maxwell (31 off 32) and Matt Renshaw attempted to rebuild the innings with a 50-run partnership. Renshaw stood tall with a fighting 65 off 44 balls, hitting five fours and a six, bringing up his half-century in 34 balls. However, once Maxwell fell to Ryan Burl in the 15th over, Zimbabwe regained full control.

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Brad Evans struck crucial blows, finishing with 3 for 23, while Wellington Masakadza and Burl chipped in with key wickets. Australia lost wickets at regular intervals in the death overs and were eventually bowled out for 146, falling 23 runs short of the target.

The comprehensive win boosted Zimbabwe’s campaign and showcased their strength in both batting depth and disciplined bowling, while Australia were left to reassess after a rare batting collapse on the big stage.