The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 continues with an exciting Group B clash as Australia take on Zimbabwe in Match No. 19 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Friday, February 13.
Australia come into this contest after a dominant start to their campaign, hammering Ireland by 67 runs in their opener. The former champions will now look to build momentum as they chase back-to-back wins in the group stage.
Zimbabwe, meanwhile, have also announced themselves in style. Led by Sikandar Raza, they opened their tournament with an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Oman, powered by their fast bowlers and a composed chase.
With both sides unbeaten so far, Friday’s encounter promises a high-intensity battle in Colombo.
Australia Team News
Australia’s preparations have been hit by an injury concern surrounding captain Mitch Marsh.
Marsh is currently recovering after suffering internal bleeding following a blow to the groin during training. He missed the opening win over Ireland and remains doubtful for the Zimbabwe fixture as well.
In his absence, Travis Head is expected to continue leading the side. Superstar batter Steve Smith is travelling with the squad as a standby option but has not yet been officially added to the World Cup squad.
Australia may also consider bringing Tim David back into the XI if he is fully fit from his hamstring issue.
Zimbabwe Team News
Zimbabwe have made a strong return to the T20 World Cup after winning the African Qualifiers.
Their pace trio of Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava and Brad Evans ran riot against Oman, taking three wickets each to set up a crushing win.
Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Brendan Taylor, however, remains a fitness watch after retiring hurt in the previous match. Zimbabwe are likely to take a final call on his availability at the toss.
Australia vs Zimbabwe: Probable Playing XIs
Australia Playing XI (Probable)
Travis Head (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Cameron Green, Matthew Renshaw, Tim David, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Cooper Connolly, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Matthew Kuhnemann
Zimbabwe Playing XI (Probable)
Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Dion Myers, Brendan Taylor (wk), Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani
Australia vs Zimbabwe Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)
- Total Matches: 3
- Australia Won: 2
- Zimbabwe Won: 1
- No Result: 0
Interestingly, Australia have never beaten Zimbabwe in a T20 World Cup match. Zimbabwe famously defeated them in their first-ever meeting back in 2007.
Australia vs Zimbabwe Full Squads
Australia Squad
Mitch Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa
Travelling reserves: Sean Abbott, Steve Smith
Zimbabwe Squad
Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Bradley Evans, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Brendan Taylor
When will the Australia vs Zimbabwe match in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 take place?
The Australia vs Zimbabwe match will be played on Friday, February 13.
What will be the venue for the Australia vs Zimbabwe match?
The match will be held at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.
What time will the toss for Australia vs Zimbabwe take place?
The toss will take place at 10:30 AM IST.
What time will the Australia vs Zimbabwe match start?
The first ball will be bowled at 11:00 AM IST.
Where to watch the live telecast of Australia vs Zimbabwe match in India?
The live telecast will be available on the Star Sports Network.
Where to watch the live streaming of Australia vs Zimbabwe match in India?
The live streaming will be available on the JioHotstar app and website.
