Zimbabwe pull off shock 23-run victory against Australia

WEB DESK: Zimbabwe pulled off a stunning 23-run victory over Australia in a high-drama Group B encounter at the T20 World Cup on Friday, posting 169/2 and then defending it with a sensational bowling and fielding performance. The win marked one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, leaving Australia reeling despite valiant efforts from Matt Renshaw and Glenn Maxwell.

Raza and Marumani set the tone

Zimbabwe’s innings began cautiously, with Tadiwanashe Marumani and Sikandar Raza taking time to settle on a slow, spin-friendly Premadasa surface. Marumani accelerated after a sluggish start, executing reverse sweeps and lofted drives while Brian Bennett anchored the innings with a patient 64 off 56 balls. Ryan Burl and Raza provided vital support, helping Zimbabwe post a competitive 169 for 2 in 20 overs, despite the absence of veteran Brendan Taylor, who was ruled out for the rest of the tournament with a hamstring injury.

Muzarabani and Munyonga shine

Australia’s chase quickly ran into trouble. Blessing Muzarabani was the star with the ball, claiming four key wickets, including a brilliant slower delivery that deceived Renshaw, who had posted a half-century. Tony Munyonga’s spectacular fielding, including a diving catch at deep midwicket, further tilted the contest in Zimbabwe’s favour. Early wickets of Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, and Tim David put Australia on the back foot, while injuries to Marcus Stoinis disrupted their middle order. Graeme Cremer and Brad Evans finished strongly, conceding very few runs in the death overs, ensuring Zimbabwe’s bowlers dominated when it mattered most.

Australia struggled to build momentum despite partnerships between Maxwell and Renshaw, with the slowing pitch preventing big hitting. In the end, Zimbabwe’s mix of disciplined bowling, athletic fielding, and timely batting proved decisive, handing them a memorable victory and boosting their hopes in the group stage.

Zimbabwe: 169/2 (Bennett 64*, Burl 31)
Australia: 146 all out (Renshaw 50, Maxwell 31)
Result: Zimbabwe won by 23 runs