COLOMBO — In a result that has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, Zimbabwe pulled off a historic 23-run victory over Australia today at the R. Premadasa Stadium. This marks one of the biggest upsets in T20 World Cup history, echoing Zimbabwe’s legendary win over the same opponents in the inaugural 2007 tournament.

Match Summary

Sent in to bat first, Zimbabwe showed remarkable composure to post a competitive total of 169/2. The innings was anchored by opener Brian Bennett, who carried his bat for a vital 64 off 56 balls*. He was well-supported by aggressive cameos from Tadiwanashe Marumani (35) and captain Sikandar Raza, whose quick-fire 25 at the death pushed the total beyond Australia’s reach.

The Collapse

Australia’s chase began in disastrous fashion, reeling at 29/4 within the first five overs. The Zimbabwean pace duo of Blessing Muzarabani and Brad Evans dismantled the star-studded top order, dismissing Travis Head, Cameron Green, and Tim David for cheap scores.

While Matt Renshaw kept Australian hopes alive with a fighting 65 off 44 balls, he found little support from the other end. Muzarabani returned to clinical effect, finishing with figures of 4/17 to earn the Player of the Match award.

Group B Implications

This victory propels Zimbabwe toward a potential Super 8 spot, while Australia now faces a must-win scenario in their remaining group fixtures against Sri Lanka and Oman to stay in the tournament.

“We believed in ourselves from ball one. To beat a team like Australia on this stage is a dream for our nation,” said Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza following the match.