T20 World Cup: Big Upset! Zimbabwe Outclass Australia in Colombo

Zimbabwe pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, defeating Australia by 23 runs in Colombo with a dominant all-round performance that has thrown Group B wide open.

The victory was built on a composed batting display followed by a relentless bowling effort led by Blessing Muzarabani, who delivered a career-best spell of 4 for 17. Supported brilliantly by Brad Evans (3 for 23), Zimbabwe dismantled Australia’s top order early and maintained control throughout the chase.

Earlier, Zimbabwe’s innings had been anchored by a fluent unbeaten 64 from Brian Bennett, while captain Sikandar Raza provided a late surge with a quickfire 25 not out. Contributions from the top order ensured a competitive total of 169 for 2 on a slow, demanding surface.

Australia’s response never fully gathered momentum. Matt Renshaw kept the chase alive with a determined 65 off 44 balls, but wickets at regular intervals stalled their progress. When Glenn Maxwell fell after scoring 31 with the asking rate climbing, the task became increasingly difficult.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers returned at the death to close out the contest, sealing a memorable win and reinforcing their reputation for producing surprises on the global stage. The result also maintains Zimbabwe’s unbeaten record against Australia in T20 World Cups, echoing their famous victory over the same opponent in the inaugural 2007 edition.

With a clinical performance in all three departments — batting, bowling, and fielding — Zimbabwe have not only secured a historic triumph but also significantly boosted their prospects in the tournament, leaving Australia with work to do to keep their Super Eight hopes alive.

ALSO READ: Italy Crush Nepal by 10 Wickets for First-Ever T20 WC Victory