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T20 World Cup shock: Australia on brink after 23-run loss to Zimbabwe; qualification race heats up

PTC News | February 13, 2026 7:39 PM CST

PTC Web Desk: In a major upset at the T20 World Cup, Zimbabwe defeated Australia by 23 runs in a Group B clash at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The victory marked Zimbabwe’s second win over Australia in T20 World Cup history, having earlier beaten them in the league stage back in 2007.

After winning the toss, Australia opted to bowl first. Zimbabwe made full use of the opportunity to bat on a good surface, posting a strong total of 169 for 2 in their allotted 20 overs.

Brian Bennett anchored the innings with an unbeaten 64 off 56 balls. The knock was his first half-century in a T20 World Cup and his overall 11th fifty in T20 Internationals. He received solid support from Tadiwanashe Marumani and Ryan Burl, who both contributed 35 runs each. Captain Sikandar Raza provided a late flourish, remaining not out on 25 from just 13 deliveries.

For Australia, Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green claimed one wicket each.

In reply, Australia were bowled out for 146 in 19.3 overs despite a fighting 65 from Matt Renshaw. Glenn Maxwell chipped in with 31 runs, but the rest of the batting line-up struggled to build partnerships. Marcus Stoinis (6), Travis Head (17), and Josh Inglis (8) failed to convert their starts. Tim David and Cameron Green were dismissed without scoring.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance. Blessing Muzarabani led the attack with four wickets, while Bradley Evans picked up three crucial scalps to derail Australia’s chase.

With this defeat, Australia find themselves in a tricky position in Group B. The team currently sits third on the points table, having won one and lost one of their two matches, earning two points so far.

To advance from the league stage, Australia will need to secure victories against Sri Lanka and Oman in their remaining fixtures. Additionally, they will have to hope that Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe drop at least one match each to improve their qualification chances.