Zimbabwe posted a commanding 169 for 2 in their second group-stage match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 against Australia at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Friday, led by a brilliant innings from Brian Bennett.
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Batting first, Zimbabwe got off to a strong start as openers Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani stitched together a 61-run partnership, setting a solid platform against the Kangaroos. Marumani’s aggressive innings ended at 35 off 21 balls, including seven boundaries, when he was dismissed by Marcus Stoinis, breaking the opening stand.
Brian Bennett’s well-constructed half-century has put Zimbabwe in a solid position against Australia 👏
It is one of the @marriottbonvoy Milestones of the #T20WorldCup 👌 pic.twitter.com/SokvyII23O
— T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) February 13, 2026
Bennett then formed a crucial partnership with Ryan Burl, adding 70 runs to help Zimbabwe surpass the 100-run mark with relative ease. Bennett’s composed knock saw him reach his 10th T20I fifty while maintaining a steady scoring rate. The partnership ended when Burl was run out for 35 off 30 balls, leaving Zimbabwe at 131 for 2 in the 16th over.
Skipper Sikandar Raza provided a late flourish with a quick cameo, helping Zimbabwe push past 150. Zimbabwe finished their innings strongly, losing only two wickets in the allotted 20 overs. Bennett remained unbeaten on 64 off 56 balls, striking seven fours, while Raza contributed 25 off 13 balls, hitting two fours and a six.
Australia struggled to contain the Zimbabwean batters, with Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green claiming one wicket each, while the rest of the bowlers found little success.
Zimbabwe’s total now puts pressure on Australia as they chase a competitive score on a pitch offering good batting conditions. The Chevrons will rely on their key bowlers to defend the total and maintain their momentum in Group B.
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The match marks a significant performance for Zimbabwe, with Bennett’s experience and composure at the crease providing a strong backbone for the innings. Fans will be eager to see if the Chevrons can convert their solid batting performance into a crucial victory over the defending champions.