In a stunning turn of events at the T20 World Cup 2026, Zimbabwe pulled off a massive upset by defeating Australia by 23 runs in Colombo. This victory marks Zimbabwe’s second consecutive win, propelling them to second place in Group B standings. Australia, suffering their first loss in two matches, now sits third on the points table.
Zimbabwe, invited to bat first after losing the toss at R Premadasa Stadium on Friday, posted a formidable 169 for 2 in their 20 overs. The opening partnership between Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani set the tone with 61 runs in just 7.3 overs. Marumani smashed 35 off 21 balls, including seven boundaries, before departing.
Bennett then anchored the innings, forging a crucial 70-run stand for the second wicket with Ryan Burl off 51 balls, taking the score to 131. Burl contributed 35 off 30 deliveries with four fours. Bennett remained unbeaten on 64 from 56 balls, featuring seven boundaries, while captain Sikandar Raza added an unbeaten 25 off 13 balls to push the total higher.
Australia’s bowlers Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green picked up one wicket each, but couldn’t stem the flow.
Chasing 170, Australia crumbled to 146 all out in 19.3 overs. They lost four wickets for just 29 runs early on. Glenn Maxwell and Matt Renshaw tried to rescue with a 77-run partnership off 59 balls, but once broken, the innings collapsed.
Captain Travis Head scored 17, Maxwell made 31 off 32 balls with a six and a four, and Renshaw top-scored with 65 off 44 balls, including five fours and a six. Blessing Muzarabani starred for Zimbabwe with 4 for 17 in four overs, Brad Evans claimed three wickets, and Wellington Masakadza and Burl took one each.
This win boosts Zimbabwe’s confidence as they eye a strong tournament run, while Australia faces pressure to bounce back.