Australia Shocked as Zimbabwe Seal 23‑Run Victory in Group B Showdown

COLOMBO (News 1st) Zimbabwe defeated Australia by 23 runs in the 19th Match of Group B at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, held at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

Batting first, Zimbabwe posted a commanding 169 for 2 in 20 overs. Brian Bennett anchored the innings with an unbeaten 64 off 56 balls, while Tadiwanashe Marumani contributed a brisk 35 off 21, and Ryan Burl added 35 off 30. Captain Sikandar Raza accelerated at the death with 25 off 13. Zimbabwe lost only two wickets, at 61/1 and 131/2.

Australia’s bowlers struggled to make breakthroughs, with Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green taking one wicket each.

In reply, Australia were bowled out for 146 in 19.3 overs. The innings began poorly as Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, and Tim David fell cheaply within the first 3.2 overs.

Captain Travis Head managed 17 off 15, while Glenn Maxwell steadied the middle with 31 off 32. The only major resistance came from Matt Renshaw, who scored a fighting 65 off 44 balls, but wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals. Australia’s final wicket fell at 146/10.

Zimbabwe’s bowling attack delivered a disciplined performance led by Blessing Muzarabani, who claimed 4 for 17, and Brad Evans, who picked up 3 for 23. Wellington Masakadza and Ryan Burl chipped in with a wicket each, sealing Zimbabwe’s memorable victory.