Muzarabani and Evans seal deal as Zimbabwe thrash mighty Australia in Match 19 of T20 World Cup 2026

Zimbabwe produced a spirited performance to defeat Australia by 23 runs in Match 19 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Batting first, they compiled a competitive 169/2 in their 20 overs, building partnerships at crucial stages. Australia, in response, struggled to find sustained momentum despite a fighting half-century from Matt Renshaw. Regular wickets derailed their chase, and they were eventually bowled out for 146 in 19.3 overs, handing Zimbabwe a memorable and hard-earned victory in Group B.

Zimbabwe’s innings was anchored by Brian Bennett, who remained unbeaten on 64 off 56 balls, holding the innings together with calm assurance. Tadiwanashe Marumani provided early impetus with a lively 35 off 21 deliveries, while Ryan Burl contributed a steady 35 to maintain stability through the middle overs. The finishing flourish came from captain Sikandar Raza, whose unbeaten 25 off just 13 balls injected late momentum and pushed the total to a challenging 169.

Australia’s bowlers found it difficult to contain the Zimbabwean batters on a steady surface. Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green picked up a wicket each, but the rest of the attack struggled to break partnerships consistently. Zimbabwe’s disciplined approach ensured they never lost control of the innings. Their calculated acceleration in the final overs proved decisive, as they capitalised on loose deliveries and maintained a healthy run rate to set up a competitive total.

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Muzarabani and Evans Seal the Deal

Australia’s chase began shakily, losing early wickets that placed them immediately on the back foot. Blessing Muzarabani led the bowling charge with a superb four-wicket haul, dismantling the top and lower order with pace and precision. Brad Evans offered excellent support, claiming three crucial wickets to further dent Australia’s hopes. Despite a determined 65 from Matt Renshaw and a brief contribution from Glenn Maxwell, Australia failed to build the sustained partnerships required to overhaul the target.

As wickets continued to fall at regular intervals, the required rate steadily climbed beyond Australia’s reach. Zimbabwe’s bowlers maintained discipline and composure, executing their plans effectively under pressure. Wellington Masakadza and Ryan Burl chipped in with timely breakthroughs to close the contest. The collective effort in the field, combined with sharp bowling spells, ensured Australia were bowled out short of the target. The victory marked a significant statement from Zimbabwe as they strengthened their position in the tournament standings.

Top Performances:

Brian Bennett’s calm, unbeaten 64 laid the foundation for Zimbabwe’s total, ensuring stability through the middle overs. Blessing Muzarabani was the standout performer with the ball, claiming a superb 4/17 in four overs to dismantle Australia’s top and lower order. Brad Evans chipped in with three key wickets, while Ryan Burl impressed with both bat and ball. For Australia, Matt Renshaw’s 65 off 44 balls was the lone bright spot in an otherwise disappointing batting display.

Key Moments:

Australia’s chase derailed early when Blessing Muzarabani removed Josh Inglis and Tim David inside the powerplay, leaving them reeling at 25/3. Brad Evans then struck twice to deepen the crisis. Glenn Maxwell and Matt Renshaw briefly steadied the innings with a 77-run partnership, but Burl’s dismissal of Maxwell proved decisive. Muzarabani returned to clean up the tail, sealing a famous 23-run victory for Zimbabwe.

Brief Score – ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026

Zimbabwe: 169/2 (20 overs)
Brian Bennett 64* (56), Ryan Burl 35 (30); Cameron Green 1/6

Australia: 146 all out (19.3 overs)
Matt Renshaw 65 (44); Blessing Muzarabani 4/17

Result: Zimbabwe won by 23 runs.