Muzarabani stars as Zimbabwe stun Australia by 23 runs
Defending 169, Zimbabwe held their nerve as fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani delivered a career-best 4-17 and brought up his 100th T20 international wicket.
Australia were reduced to 29-4 early in the chase before Matthew Renshaw (65) and Glenn Maxwell added 77 for the fifth wicket. However, when Muzarabani returned to remove Renshaw in the penultimate over, the result was effectively sealed.
Earlier, Brian Bennett anchored Zimbabwe’s innings with an unbeaten 64, while captain Sikandar Raza provided late acceleration with 25 off 13 balls to lift the total to 169-2.
Australia were bowled out for 146 in 19.3 overs, leaving Group B finely balanced with Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka level on points, and Australia now playing catch-up.
The result marks Zimbabwe’s second victory over Australia in T20 World Cup history.
