12/2/2026, 11:26:24 am

Australia vs Zimbabwe Match Preview 2026: Playing XI, Pitch Report, Time, Venue & Prediction

Australia will face Zimbabwe in the 19th Match, Group B of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with Australia aiming to continue their winning momentum while Zimbabwe looks to produce a competitive performance and challenge one of the tournament favourite's.

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 – Match Details

  • Match: Australia vs Zimbabwe – Group B
  • Date: 13 February 2026
  • Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
  • Time: 11:00 AM Local / 05:30 AM GMT

Live Telecast & Streaming

  • Live Telecast: Star Sports Network
  • Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar / JioHotstar

Probable Playing XI

Australia Probable XI:

Mitchell Marsh (c), Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Tim David, Marcus Stoinis, Cameron Green, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Adam Zampa, Nathan Ellis

Zimbabwe Probable XI:

Sikandar Raza (c),Brendon Taylor (wk), Brian Brennett, Tadiwanshe Murumani, Ryan Burl, Dion Mayers, Wellington Masakazada, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Clive madande, Tony munyonga


Pitch Report

The R. Premadasa Stadium pitch generally offers assistance to spinners as the match progresses, while batters who settle early can score freely. Totals around 160–170 are typically considered competitive at this venue.


Weather Report

Colombo is expected to experience warm and humid conditions with a slight possibility of evening humidity, but major rain interruptions are unlikely, ensuring a full match.


Key Players

Australia

  • Mitchell Marsh: Explosive captain capable of changing the game quickly.
  • Glenn Maxwell: Match-winning all-rounder with power-hitting and off-spin.
  • Adam Zampa: Key wicket-taking spinner in middle overs.

Zimbabwe

  • Sikandar Raza: Experienced all-rounder and team leader.
  • Blessing Muzarabani: Strike pacer capable of early breakthroughs.
  • Ryan Burl: Powerful middle-order hitter and useful bowler.

Match Prediction

Australia enters the contest as the clear favorite due to stronger batting depth and a more experienced bowling attack. Zimbabwe will need early wickets and strong middle-overs control to challenge the Australian lineup.