SCORES in T20 ODI MATCH at Premadasa Stadium, 13 March 2026
ZIMBABWE 169 for 2 … AUSTRALIA 149
Zimbabwe won by 23 runs
Blessing Muzarabani took 4 wkts for 17 runs and became Man of the Match
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Zimbabwe remained undefeated against Australia in T20 World Cups after a career-best bowling display from Blessing Muzarabani, key strikes from Brad Evans, and a gutsy 64 not out from Brian Bennett helped orchestrate a stunning 23-run win in Colombo and throw Group B into chaos.
Muzarabani took 4 for 17 from four overs, ripping out the top order alongside Evans in the powerplay – Evans took 3 for 23 – as Australia never really looked close to chasing Zimbabwe’s impressive 169 for 2 down that had been set up by even contributions from the top four on a slow pitch.
Matt Renshaw‘s 65 off 44 gave Australia hope but on top of the polished display with bat and ball, Zimbabwe also fielded superbly to restrict Australia and threaten their T20 World Cup Super Eight hopes.
Australia’s decision to bowl first on a fresh pitch in the day-time will be scrutinised. There were moments when Bennett’s 56-ball innings looked like it might have been slower than required, but powerful contributions from Tadiwanashe Marumani, Ryan Burl and Sikandar Raza ensured it was more than enough as Australia managed to take just two wickets in 20 overs.
The win was even more impressive after Zimbabwe lost the hero of their last T20 World Cup victory against Australia in Brendan Taylor for the tournament because of a hamstring injury. Zimbabwe are now on the verge of qualifying for the Super Eight stage, while Australia must defeat both Sri Lanka and Oman in Pallekele to ensure safe passage through to the next phase.
It was sad to see Australia failing to win against Zimbabwe.
Same with Sri Lanka against Bangladesh.