Heraldo de Madrid - Bennett half-century as Zimbabwe make 169-2 against Australia

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Bennett half-century as Zimbabwe make 169-2 against Australia

SPORTS 13.02.2026

Bennett half-century as Zimbabwe make 169-2 against Australia / Photo: Ishara S. KODIKARA - AFP

Opener Brian Bennett scored a classy unbeaten 64 to guide Zimbabwe to 169-2 in their T20 World Cup clash against injury-hit Australia at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium on Friday.

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A 70-run stand between Bennett and Ryan Burl (35) held Zimbabwe's innings together after they were put in to bat by stand-in Australia skipper Travis Head.

The stand is a record for Zimbabwe for the second wicket in T20 World Cups.

Bennett's 56-ball knock contained seven fours and was a solid exhibition of skilful batting rather than power-hitting.

It was the tenth half-century in T20Is for the 22-year-old and he was ably assisted by fellow opener Tadiwanashe Marumani (35).

Zimbabwe thrashed Oman in their opener.

Australia, easy winners over Ireland in their first match, were again without captain Mitchell Marsh with injury.

And the former champions were left with more to worry about as Marcus Stoinis was struck on his left palm attempting a return catch halfway through his third over.

The all-rounder was accompanied off the field in pain.

They are already missing fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, ruled out of the tournament injured.

Tim David was named in the team however after missing the Ireland win following a hamstring injury.

A.Montoya--HdM