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Senior Zimbabwe cricketer Brendan Taylor has been ruled out of the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 following a hamstring injury. The wicketkeeper-batter faced a hamstring pull during Zimbabwe's opening encounter against Oman and had to retire himself out after scoring 31 off 30. The Chevrons chased the target, as Taylor was not required to take any further part in the match.

However, ahead of the match against Zimbabwe at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo on Friday, February 13, captain Sikandar Raza broke the news that Taylor won't be able to take any further part in the twenty-team tournament. In Taylor's absence, Tony Munyonga came into the Playing XI, whereas Tadiwanashe Marumani will be handling the duties behind the wickets.

Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed shortly later that Ben Curran has been named as a replacement player. Meanwhile, left-arm pacer Richard Ngarava was also sidelined for the game against the Travis Head-led side and was replaced by Graeme Cremer in the Playing XI. Raza explained that Ngarava's case is not as concerning as Taylor's and that the youngster was kept on the bench to avoid any aggravation to the injury.

"Brendan Taylor picked up an injury and he's been ruled out of the competition. On the other hand, Richard Ngarava is more of a precautionary measure. His first scan and second scan has come back pretty positive. So he misses out today as well. And for those, Tony Munyonga and Greame Creamer are in," Raza explained at the toss.

Zimbabwe's Playing XI for Group B match versus Australia

Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wicketkeeper), Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza (captain), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani

Sikandar Raza (capt), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Brad Evans, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Ben Curran, and Dion Myers