By Alam Zeb Safi
COLOMBO: Fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani claimed four wickets for 17 runs as Zimbabwe shocked Australia by 23 runs in a Group B clash at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on Friday.
Defending 169 at the R Premadasa Stadium, Zimbabwe ripped through Australia’s top order during the powerplay and never relinquished control, securing two crucial points in the tournament.
After Australia captain Travis Head elected to field, Zimbabwe built their innings around an unbeaten 64 from Brian Bennett. The right-hander struck seven fours in a measured 56-ball knock, anchoring partnerships that laid the foundation for a competitive total of 169 for two.
Wicketkeeper Tadiwanashe Marumani provided early impetus with 35 off 21 deliveries, peppering the off-side with seven boundaries before falling to Marcus Stoinis. Ryan Burl added a brisk 35 from 30 balls and skipper Sikandar Raza supplied late acceleration with 25 not out off 13 balls, including a six, as Zimbabwe scored 51 runs in the final five overs.
Australia’s bowlers struggled to make sustained inroads. Cameron Green was economical in his brief spell, taking one wicket for six runs while Stoinis also claimed a scalp. Adam Zampa and Nathan Ellis were unable to contain Zimbabwe’s middle order as the innings progressed.
In reply, Australia’s chase faltered almost immediately. Muzarabani struck in his first over removing Josh Inglis, and returned to dismiss Tim David two balls later. When Brad Evans bowled Head and had Green caught behind, Australia were reeling at 29 for four inside five overs.
All-rounder Glenn Maxwell and Matt Renshaw attempted to rebuild with a 77-run stand for the fifth wicket. Maxwell scored 31 from 32 balls but struggled to shift gears before being bowled by Burl. Renshaw kept Australia in contention with a fluent 65 off 44 balls, reaching his half-century in 34 deliveries.
However, Muzarabani returned to break the resistance, dismissing Renshaw in the 19th over before clean bowling Adam Zampa. Evans wrapped up the innings when Matthew Kuhnemann was run out, sealing Australia’s defeat at 146 in 19.3 overs.
Zimbabwe’s disciplined bowling effort was reflected in the powerplay figures, restricting Australia to 38 for four in the first six overs. Muzarabani’s pace and bounce proved decisive on a surface that offered assistance to seamers early on.
Summarised Scores:
Zimbabwe 169/2 (20 overs) – Brian Bennett 64* (56), Tadiwanashe Marumani 35 (21), Ryan Burl 35 (30); Cameron Green 1-6, Marcus Stoinis 1-17
Australia 146 all out (19.3 overs) – Matt Renshaw 65 (44), Glenn Maxwell 31 (32); Blessing Muzarabani 4-17, Brad Evans 3-23
Zimbabwe won by 23 runs
