The Australia vs Zimbabwe Group B clash in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 delivered early drama as Zimbabwe posted a competitive total and Australia stumbled in the chase. The match, played on February 13, 2026, has major implications for the group standings, with both teams coming in after opening-game victories.
The contest is important because it could shape the race for the knockout stages. With Sri Lanka also in Group B, every win matters, and an upset result could change the points table quickly.
Live Score Update: Zimbabwe Set 170-Run Target
Zimbabwe batted first and finished their innings at 169 for 2 in 20 overs, setting Australia a target of 170 runs. The innings was built around a strong performance from opener Brian Bennett, who scored an unbeaten 64.
He was supported by Tadiwanashe Marumani, who added a quick 35 runs, giving Zimbabwe a fast start. Later in the innings, captain Sikandar Raza played a brisk cameo to push the total close to the 170 mark.
Zimbabwe lost only two wickets in their 20 overs, showing discipline and control on a pitch that did not offer much help to bowlers.
Early Shock: Australia Collapse in Powerplay
Australia’s chase began poorly. The team lost four wickets for just 29 runs inside the powerplay, putting them under immediate pressure.
Zimbabwe’s pace attack, led by Blessing Muzarabani and Brad Evans, removed key Australian batters, including top-order players, to take control of the game.
The early wickets shifted momentum firmly in Zimbabwe’s favour and raised hopes of a major upset.
Middle-Order Fightback Attempts
After the early collapse, Australia’s middle order tried to rebuild the innings. Glenn Maxwell and Matt Renshaw formed a partnership to steady the chase.
However, the required run rate continued to rise, crossing 10 runs per over, which kept the pressure on the Australian batters.
Zimbabwe’s fielding effort also stood out, with several sharp stops and catches helping maintain control of the match.
How Zimbabwe Built Their Innings
Zimbabwe’s batting approach was steady rather than explosive. The opening pair put on a strong partnership and ensured the team did not lose early wickets.
At one stage, the team was 79 for 1 after 10 overs, a solid platform in a T20 match. The innings gathered momentum in the final overs, with quick boundaries helping the team reach 169 for 2 by the end of the 20th over.
Key Performers of the Match So Far
For Zimbabwe, Brian Bennett’s unbeaten 64 was the highlight of the innings. His knock provided stability at the top and allowed other batters to play freely.
Marumani’s quick 35 runs ensured a strong start, while Raza’s late hitting gave the team a competitive finish.
For Australia, bowlers struggled to take wickets in the middle overs, although Marcus Stoinis managed a key breakthrough earlier in the innings.
Toss and Team News
Australia won the toss and chose to field first in the match at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
The team entered the game with injury concerns. Regular captain Mitchell Marsh was unavailable, and Travis Head led the side in his absence.
Zimbabwe, on the other hand, came into the match with confidence after a comfortable win in their opening game.
Group B Scenario: Why This Match Matters
Both teams entered the match after winning their first games. Australia had defeated Ireland by 67 runs, while Zimbabwe had beaten Oman by eight wickets.
A second win would put either side in a strong position to qualify for the next round. A loss, however, would tighten the group standings and increase pressure in the remaining matches.
Pitch and Conditions in Colombo
The pitch in Colombo offered limited assistance to bowlers, especially early in the innings. Zimbabwe took advantage of the conditions by building partnerships and avoiding unnecessary risks.
However, as the match progressed, the surface became slower, making stroke play more difficult. This contributed to Australia’s early batting struggles.
Head-to-Head Context
Historically, Australia have dominated Zimbabwe in international cricket. However, Zimbabwe have managed occasional surprise wins, including a memorable upset in past tournaments.
Heading into this match, Zimbabwe were ranked outside the top ten in T20 cricket but had shown improved performances in recent games.
Australia’s Tournament Context
Australia entered the tournament with strong expectations but were dealing with injuries to key players. The absence of senior bowlers and the captain added pressure on the squad.
Despite these challenges, the team started the tournament with a convincing win over Ireland, boosting confidence before the Zimbabwe clash.
Zimbabwe’s Rising Confidence
Zimbabwe’s early win over Oman helped them build momentum. The team showed a balanced performance with both bat and ball in that match.
Young players like Brian Bennett have been key to the team’s improved performances, giving them confidence against stronger opponents.
Turning Points of the Match
The biggest turning point so far has been Australia’s early batting collapse. Losing four wickets inside the powerplay forced the middle order to take risks, which increased pressure.
Zimbabwe’s disciplined bowling and fielding kept the run rate under control and prevented Australia from building a strong partnership.
What to Watch in the Final Overs
As the chase progresses, the match could depend on Australia’s middle-order hitters. Players like Maxwell and Stoinis are capable of turning games quickly in the final overs.
For Zimbabwe, the focus will be on tight death bowling and smart field placements to defend the target.
What the Result Could Mean
If Zimbabwe manage to defend the total, it would be one of the biggest upsets of the tournament and could shake up the group standings.
A win for Australia, however, would keep them on track for qualification and maintain their position among the tournament favourites.
Bottom Line
Zimbabwe posted 169 for 2, with Brian Bennett scoring an unbeaten 64, before Australia collapsed to 29 for 4 early in the chase. The match remains finely balanced, with Australia’s middle order trying to recover under mounting pressure.
The result of this February 13 Group B clash could have a major impact on the standings, making it one of the most important early matches of the T20 World Cup 2026.
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Last Updated on: Friday, February 13, 2026 2:18 pm by Digital Herald Team | Published by: Digital Herald Team on Friday, February 13, 2026 2:18 pm | News Categories: Sports