HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Zimbabwe stun Australia in T20 World Cup upset

BBC Sport •
×

Blessing Muzarabani delivered a devastating spell of 4-17 to lead Zimbabwe to a famous 23-run victory over Australia in the T20 World Cup. After posting 169-2, anchored by Brian Bennett's unbeaten 64, Zimbabwe's disciplined bowling and sharp fielding shattered Australia's chase despite a 77-run stand between Matthew Renshaw and Glenn Maxwell.

Zimbabwe's total of 170 appeared modest but was built on a calculated strategy. Captain Sikandar Raza explained they deliberately avoided aggression on a slow Colombo pitch to prevent a collapse, a plan that left runs on the table but ensured wickets in hand. Australia's top order then crumbled against Muzarabani's intelligent pace, losing four early wickets.

The win, Zimbabwe's second over Australia in T20 World Cup history following their 2007 shock, propels them to the top of Group B. It leaves Australia, playing without injured captain Mitchell Marsh, in a precarious position with two losses. This result underscores Zimbabwe's growth from courageous underdogs to composed, strategic winners on the global stage.