If someone asks you what your favourite genre in cricket is, you might end up saying, carnage from the bat, pinpoint yorkers or swing in lords. Though these are very common things when it comes to talking about cricket. Now, what if someone says that his or her favourite genre in cricket is seeing an upset, the listener feels a little rush of adrenaline in the body. Seeing a big team fall to a small team is always a treat. Zimbabwe made it possible again by defeating Australia by 23 runs in the marquee T20 clash.
From the very first day of the tournament, it was confirmed that small teams are not going to play just like a participating team; they came on the verge of winning in so many cases. On Friday, Zimbabwe gave a stamp of confirmation on the theory by causing the very first upset of the tournament. Sikandar Raza’s brigade demolished the Aussies, making them all out.
Zimbabwe is a team full of potentials
Once there was a time when Zimbabwe's team was very good and strong, but financial instability and political disruptions caused their downfall. Despite being one of the top teams, Zimbabwe faces a lot of challenges so far, but from time to time, talents flourished for them. In the marquee clash, Australia called Zimbabwe to bowl first in the Premadasa Stadium of Colombo.
They developed their innings with a good start. After losing the first wicket at 61 runs, Zimbabwe lost the only other wicket in just 131 runs, which reflects not only their determination but also their composure against a big team. Opener Brian Bernett stood tall till the last over and scored 64 runs in 56 balls. Ryan Burl and Marumani both scored a fast 35 runs while captain Sikandar Raza gave the finishing touch, scoring 25 runs in 13 balls.
Also Read | T20 World Cup 2026: Hardik Pandya’s 109m six tops list of five longest hits so far, Here is the full list
Mitchell Marsh’s unavailability was one of the major reasons for Australia's bad outing in the field. They lost their first four wickets in just 29 runs, then Matt Renshaw tried to save the disaster but failed in the end. Muzarabani picked four crucial wickets, which included Josh Inglish, Tim David and good-looking Renshaw. Brad Evans also took the bone out of the Australian squad, picking three wickets.
It was a true display of potential and the calling of small teams: to disrupt everyone. Zimbabwe is now in second place in Group B with two wins in two matches. They will take the field against Ireland on February 17.
