In a major upset at the T20 World Cup, Zimbabwe secured a remarkable 23-run victory over Australia in a Group match at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium on Friday.
After being asked to bat first, Zimbabwe posted a competitive total of 169 runs. Opener Brian Bennett anchored the innings with an unbeaten 64 off 56 deliveries, striking seven boundaries. He received solid support from Tadiwanashe Marumani and Ryan Burl, who both scored 35 runs, while captain Sikandar Raza added a quick 25 not out towards the end.
Australia’s bowling attack managed to keep the scoring in check, conceding only one six during the innings. Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green claimed a wicket each.
Chasing 170, Australia struggled under pressure and were bowled out for 146 in the final over. Matt Renshaw fought hard with a 65-run knock, and Glenn Maxwell contributed 31, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to build momentum. Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani delivered a match-winning performance, taking four crucial wickets.
Australia made key changes to their squad, bringing in Tim David and Ben Dwarshuis while leaving out Cooper Connolly and Xavier Bartlett. Meanwhile, Steve Smith is yet to join the squad after being called up to replace injured captain Mitchell Marsh, who was ruled out due to a groin injury. Stand-in skipper Travis Head confirmed Smith’s expected arrival later.
🏏 Teams
Australia:
Travis Head (capt), Josh Inglis (wk), Cameron Green, Tim David, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Renshaw, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Matt Kuhnemann.
Zimbabwe:
Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza (capt), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani.
