Brian Bennett’s 64* Powers Zimbabwe To 169/2 Against Australia In T20 World Cup 2026 Clash
Zimbabwe produced a composed batting display to post 169/2 in 20 overs against Australia in their T20 World Cup 2026 encounter at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Friday, riding on Brian Bennett’s unbeaten 64.
After losing the toss and being put into bat, Zimbabwe’s openers Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani came out with intent. The pair handled Australia’s pace attack confidently and stitched a 61-run opening stand. Zimbabwe reached 47 without loss in the powerplay, setting a strong platform.
Australia broke through in the eighth over when Marcus Stoinis dismissed Marumani for a brisk 35 off 21 balls, an innings that included seven boundaries. However, the breakthrough did little to slow Zimbabwe’s momentum. Bennett continued to anchor the innings and found solid support in Ryan Burl.
The duo added 70 crucial runs during the middle overs, maintaining pressure on the Australian bowlers. Burl departed for 35 off 30 deliveries in the 16th over, but by then Zimbabwe were firmly in control. Bennett brought up his half-century off 43 balls and remained unbeaten on 64 from 56 deliveries, striking seven fours.
Australia faced further concern when Stoinis injured his fingers while attempting a return catch in the 16th over and had to leave the field in visible discomfort.
In the closing stages, skipper Sikandar Raza provided the late acceleration with a quickfire 25 off 13 balls, including two fours and a six, pushing Zimbabwe to a competitive 169/2 against the 2021 champions.
Our Thoughts
Zimbabwe’s disciplined batting effort underlined their growing confidence on the global stage. Brian Bennett’s calm and calculated innings ensured stability, while the supporting contributions from Marumani, Burl and Raza added depth to the total. Against a strong Australian side, 169 is not overwhelming but certainly competitive, especially on surfaces where pressure builds during chases. Australia’s fielding concerns and Stoinis’ injury could also impact momentum. The second innings will test whether Zimbabwe’s bowlers can defend this target with the same composure shown by their batters.