Zimbabwe beats Australia in ICC T20 World Cup 2026 clash to register another upset against the Kangaroos in a big championship.
Zimbabwe remain undefeated against Australia in T20 World Cups after a career-best bowling display from Blessing Muzabarani and a gutsy 64 not out from Brian Bennett helped a stunning 23-run win in Colombo and threw group B into chaos.
Muzarabani took 4 for 17 from four overs, ripping out the top order alongside Brad Evans in the powerplay who also took 3 for 23, as Australia never really looked close to chasing Zimbabwe’s impressive 169 for 2 on a slow pitch that had been set up by even contributions from the top four.
Matt Renshaw’s 65 off 44 gave Australia hope but on top of the polished display with bat and ball they also fielded superbly to restrict Australia and threaten their Super Eight hopes.
Blessing Muzarabani has put Zimbabwe on the brink of a famous victory. A clever slower ball did for Matt Renshaw who played a gem of a knock to keep Australia alive. He was deceived and through the shot, skying a ball to mid-off and Ryan Burl called everyone out to take the catch.
Muzarabani added Nathan Ellis at the end of the 19th over with a leg stump yorker to bowl Ellis around his legs. Magnificent from Muzarabani.
Italy secure first-ever victory in T20 World Cup
Earlier, Italy secured its first-ever victory in a T20 World Cup match with a commanding 10-wicket win over Nepal at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday.
After winning the toss and opting to bowl, Italy delivered a disciplined performance in the field, restricting Nepal to 123 runs.
Leg-spinner Crishan Kalugamage led the bowling attack with an impressive three-wicket haul, applying crucial pressure in the middle overs to keep the opposition in check.
In response, Italy’s batters produced a flawless run chase, reaching the target without losing a wicket to seal a historic triumph.
The victory marks a significant turnaround for the European side, who began their campaign with a 73-run defeat to Scotland at Eden Gardens.
