In one of the biggest upsets in recent T20 World Cup history, Zimbabwe defeated Australia by 23 runs in Colombo, leaving the Australian team’s tournament hopes hanging by a thread. The comprehensive victory showcased Zimbabwe’s determination and skill against a team widely considered among the favorites.
Australia won the toss and elected to chase Zimbabwe’s total of 169-2, but the decision backfired spectacularly. The Australian top order disintegrated under pressure from the Zimbabwean pace attack, with Josh Inglis departing for 8 runs on the very first delivery bowled by Blessing Muzarabani. Cameron Green and Tim David both registered golden ducks, caught behind off successive deliveries, reducing Australia to a shocking 25 for 3.
Captain Travis Head, standing in for the injured Mitch Marsh, also fell cheaply for 17 runs, chopping the ball onto his stumps. This marked only the second instance in history that Australia had lost four wickets within the powerplay at a T20 World Cup. The early carnage left the team reeling and struggling to mount any meaningful resistance.
Matthew Renshaw showed tremendous character in scoring his maiden T20I half-century, finishing with 65 runs off 44 balls. His innings included impressive boundaries off Wellington Masakadza in the 14th over as Australia attempted to resurrect their chase. Glenn Maxwell also contributed, batting without a helmet and displaying glimpses of his trademark flair before falling for 31. However, when Renshaw was dismissed in the penultimate over with 31 runs still required, the game was effectively over.
Zimbabwe’s victory was made even more impressive by the absence of vice-captain Brendan Taylor through injury and captain Sikandar Raza battling calf cramps throughout the innings. Young opener Brian Bennett top-scored with an unbeaten 64, while Muzarabani’s devastating spell ensured Zimbabwe’s first win over Australia in T20 World Cup cricket in 18 years.