Zimbabwe Stun Australia with First Major Upset of the Tournament

Zimbabwe outclassed Australia by 23 runs in the 19th match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at R. Premadasa Stadium. After being invited to bat first, Zimbabwe posted 169/2 in 20 overs. Brian Bennett led the innings with a superb knock. He scored 64 runs off 56 balls and remained unbeaten.

Tadiwanashe Marumani, Ryan Burl, and Sikandar Raza played short cameos. They added useful runs and helped Zimbabwe cross the 150-run mark. Cameron Green (1/6 in 1.1 overs) was the most successful bowler for Australia.

In reply, Blessing Muzarabani (4/17 in 4 overs) and Brad Evans (3/20 in 3.3 overs) destroyed Australia’s top order. Glenn Maxwell and Matt Renshaw tried to steady the innings. However, they could not stop the collapse. Australia were bowled out for 146 with three balls to spare. Matt Renshaw was the highest scorer for Australia.

This result became the first major upset of the tournament. With this win, Zimbabwe pushed Australia to third place in Group B.

Brief Scorecard

Zimbabwe (Zim) : 169/2 (20)

Brian Bennett 64*(56), Tadiwanashe Marumani 35(21), Ryan Buri 35(30);

Cameroon Green 1/6(1.1), Marcus Stoinis 1/17(1)

Australia (Aus) : 146 (19.3)

Matt Renshaw 65(44), Glenn Maxwell 31(32), Travis Head 17(15);

Blessing Muzarabani 4/17(4), Brad Evans 3/23(3.3)

Player of the Match: Blessing Muzarabani

Zimbabwe produced the first big upset of the tournament. They defeated Australia with a strong all-round effort. Blessing Muzarabani and Brad Evans successfully defended the total. They demolished the top order and put Australia under pressure.

Matt Renshaw and Glenn Maxwell tried their best but failed to prevent the defeat, something England managed to avoid just two days ago against Nepal. Zimbabwe now have to win both of their remaining matches to advance to the next stage. Get ready for more action. Stay tuned with JUSZNEWS for regular updates!