One of the biggest upsets in recent T20 cricket history has just unfolded at the T20 World Cup 2026. Australia, one of the tournament’s strong favorites, have been knocked out of the competition and will not advance to the Super 8 stage. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe have secured their spot in the next round after a rain-affected match against Ireland on Tuesday ended in a tie.
Ireland vs Zimbabwe Match Washed Out
The Group stage clash between Ireland and Zimbabwe was abandoned due to rain, with both teams receiving one point each. While that result was frustrating for both sides, it turned out to be exactly what Zimbabwe needed. They had already won their two previous matches, meaning the one extra point took their tally to five points — enough to confirm their place in the Super 8.
How Australia Got Eliminated
Australia’s World Cup campaign started on a positive note. They beat Ireland convincingly by 67 runs in their opener. However, things quickly fell apart after that. Zimbabwe handed Australia a 23-run defeat, and then Sri Lanka crushed them by 8 wickets on Monday — a result that almost certainly ended Australia’s Super 8 hopes.
For Australia to stay alive, they needed Zimbabwe to lose both their remaining matches. That didn’t happen. With Zimbabwe now through, Australia’s fate is sealed, even though they still have one group game left against Oman.
Zimbabwe’s Brilliant Run
Zimbabwe have been the surprise package of this tournament. They beat Oman by 8 wickets in their first match and then pulled off a stunning upset against Australia. Under the captaincy of Sikandar Raza, Zimbabwe have not lost a single match in the tournament so far — a remarkable achievement.
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India’s Super 8 Schedule Confirmed
With Australia’s exit confirmed, India’s Super 8 opponents are now fully known. Team India will face South Africa on February 22 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Then on February 26, Suryakumar Yadav and company will take on Zimbabwe at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. India’s final Super 8 match will be against West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
It’s shaping up to be a thrilling Super 8 stage — and Zimbabwe’s presence makes it even more exciting.
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