Young Zimbabwean opener Brian Bennett’s unbeaten 64 and fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani’s career-best 4 for 17 combined to produce a stunning 23-run victory over Australia in the T20 World Cup. The comprehensive team performance has elevated Zimbabwe’s standing in world cricket while plunging Australia into crisis mode.
Zimbabwe’s innings was built on solid foundations as the 22-year-old Bennett displayed maturity beyond his years. Opening the batting, he remained composed throughout, finding the boundary regularly while ensuring wickets didn’t fall in clusters. His partnership with Tadiwanashe Marumani added 35 runs before Marcus Stoinis broke through, dismissing Marumani for 35. Ryan Burl contributed a valuable 35 runs before Cameron Green claimed his wicket, but Bennett held firm to guide Zimbabwe to a competitive 169-2.
Australia’s chase began disastrously as Muzarabani struck immediately, dismissing Josh Inglis for 8 runs off his first delivery. The towering fast bowler then produced two consecutive deliveries of exceptional quality, removing Cameron Green and Tim David for golden ducks. Both batsmen were caught behind, utterly deceived by Muzarabani’s pace and movement. The triple strike left Australia reeling at 25 for 3.
Travis Head’s departure for 17 made it 29 for 4, setting up a fascinating contest between Australia’s middle order and Zimbabwe’s disciplined bowling attack. Matthew Renshaw rose to the challenge magnificently, scoring 65 off 44 balls in an innings filled with powerful strokes. His partnership with Glenn Maxwell added 77 crucial runs, but once both were dismissed—each chopping onto their stumps—Australia’s resistance crumbled. Marcus Stoinis managed only 6 runs before holing out.
Zimbabwe’s fielding was exceptional throughout, epitomized by Tony Munyonga’s spectacular diving catch in the deep to dismiss Ben Dwarshuis. The victory was achieved despite vice-captain Brendan Taylor being absent with injury and captain Sikandar Raza battling calf cramps. Australia must now regroup quickly with their tournament survival at stake.
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