Zimbabwe caused a seismic shock at the T20 World Cup on Friday, defeating heavyweights Australia by 23 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium.

This is only the second win of Zimbabwe over Australia in the T20 World Cup history.

Defending a total of 169 for 2, the Zimbabwean bowling attack, led by pacer Blessing Muzarabani, dismantled the 2021 champions.

Muzarabani delivered a career-best spell of 4 for 17, claiming a wicket with his first ball and reaching the milestone of 100 T20I wickets. He was ably supported by Brad Evans, who took 3 for 23.

Australia’s chase began disastrously, collapsing to 29 for 4 inside the first five overs. A 77-run partnership for the fifth wicket between Glenn Maxwell (31 off 32) and Matt Renshaw briefly revived Australian hopes.

However, once Maxwell was bowled by Ryan Burl in the 15th over, the momentum shifted back to Zimbabwe. Despite a fighting half-century from Renshaw (65 off 44), Australia were bowled out for 146 in 19.3 overs.

Earlier, Zimbabwe’s innings was anchored by opener Brian Bennett, who remained unbeaten on 64 off 56 balls. Significant contributions came from Tadiwanashe Marumani (35 off 21), Ryan Burl (35 off 30), and a quickfire cameo from captain Sikandar Raza (25 not-out off 13).

The victory moves Zimbabwe to second place in Group B with 4 points, significantly boosting their chances of reaching the Super Eight.

Australia, sitting third with 2 points, now faces a must-win scenario in their upcoming clash against group leaders Sri Lanka.