UNS: Zimbabwe produced one of the biggest upsets of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, defeating favourites Australia by 23 runs in a dramatic group-stage encounter on Friday.
Chasing 170, Australia were bowled out for 146 after a collapse triggered by a fiery spell from Blessing Muzarabani. The pacer removed Josh Inglis early and struck again to dismiss Tim David, leaving Australia struggling at 29 for four inside five overs. Brad Evans added to the pressure by claiming Cameron Green for a duck.
Glenn Maxwell and Matt Renshaw attempted a recovery with a 77-run stand, but Ryan Burl broke the partnership by dismissing Maxwell for 31. Wellington Masakadza then trapped Marcus Stoinis, and despite Renshaw’s valiant 65, Australia’s chase faltered. Muzarabani returned to remove Renshaw and Adam Zampa before Matthew Kuhnemann was run out, sealing a famous victory for Zimbabwe.
Earlier, Zimbabwe’s openers Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani laid a solid foundation with a 61-run partnership. Marumani struck a rapid 35 before falling to Marcus Stoinis. Bennett then combined with Ryan Burl for a further 70 runs, guiding Zimbabwe past 130. Bennett brought up his T20I half-century, while Burl contributed 35 before being run out, as Zimbabwe posted a competitive total of 169.
The win marks one of Zimbabwe’s most memorable performances on the world stage and throws the group wide open.
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