Australia Will Bowl First Against Zimbabwe After Winning Toss

Australia has won the toss and decided to bowl first in their T20 World Cup match against Zimbabwe. Captain Mitchell Marsh is out due to injury, and other players have been brought into the team.
By Newsroom | Cricket, Sri Lanka |

The R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo is set to host the 19th match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 between Australia and Zimbabwe on Friday, February 13. The pre-match proceedings saw Australia win the toss and elect to bowl first. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of injuries for the Australian squad, notably the absence of captain Mitchell Marsh. Despite these challenges, Australia has made strategic adjustments to their playing XI, with Tim David and Ben Dwarshuis returning to the team, while Cooper Connolly and Xavier Bartlett are noted omissions. Zimbabwe enters the match with recent success, having won their last four T20 international matches, including a convincing victory over Oman in their tournament opener. Australia, on the other hand, seeks to build momentum following a strong performance against Ireland.

Pre-Match Landscape: Squads and Injuries

Australia's lineup for the encounter features Travis Head as captain, with Josh Inglis as wicketkeeper. Other key players include Cameron Green, Matt Renshaw, Glenn Maxwell, and Marcus Stoinis. The inclusion of Tim David and Ben Dwarshuis signifies an attempt to bolster the team's strength. Reports indicate that Mitchell Marsh is unlikely to play due to a groin injury sustained shortly before the toss. The squad's depth is being tested, with some sources mentioning Steve Smith yet to join the group, though his arrival is anticipated.

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Australia v Zimbabwe: T20 World Cup cricket – live - 1

Zimbabwe's probable playing XI includes Tadiwanashe Marumani (wicketkeeper) and Sikandar Raza as captain. Other expected players are Tashinga Musekiwa, Wellington Masakadza, and Blessing Muzarabani. The team's bowling attack, particularly their pace bowlers like Blessing Muzarabani, who has demonstrated strong performance after an injury, is considered a significant asset.

TeamCaptainWicketkeeperKey Players
AustraliaTravis HeadJosh InglisCameron Green, Matt Renshaw, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis
ZimbabweSikandar RazaTadiwanashe MarumaniTashinga Musekiwa, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani

Toss and Strategic Decisions

Australia won the toss and elected to bowl first at the R Premadasa Stadium. This decision by Travis Head, leading Australia in Mitchell Marsh's absence, suggests a tactical approach based on the pitch conditions and the strength of their bowling unit. Zimbabwe's captain, Sikandar Raza, will now lead his team in batting first.

Australia v Zimbabwe: T20 World Cup cricket – live - 2

The toss result and Australia's decision to bowl first are key tactical indicators for the match.

Recent Form and Historical Context

Zimbabwe approaches this match with considerable confidence, having secured two wins in their last four T20Is and a dominant victory against Oman in their recent T20 World Cup fixture. This contrasts with Australia's recent form, which has seen one win in their last six completed matches.

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Australia v Zimbabwe: T20 World Cup cricket – live - 3

Historically, Australia has never beaten Zimbabwe at a T20 World Cup. This past performance record could add an element of intrigue to the current contest. Australia's batting lineup has shown capability, scoring over 180 runs in their past two T20 World Cup innings, a first for consecutive innings in the tournament's history.

Zimbabwe's recent positive run contrasts with Australia's recent struggles, while historical head-to-head records in T20 World Cups favor Zimbabwe.

Australia v Zimbabwe: T20 World Cup cricket – live - 4

Broadcast and Streaming Information

The match is being televised live in India on the Star Sports Network and available for streaming on the Jio Hotstar app and website. Various other broadcasting partners are covering the event globally, including Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, and Prime Video in Australia. Live streaming options may also be available on platforms like ICC.TV, with some regions offering free access, potentially through VPN usage.

Expert Analysis and Team Dynamics

Reports suggest that Australia is facing an "injury crisis," potentially fielding only 12 fit players at one point. This situation places additional pressure on the available players and highlights the team's resilience. The return of Tim David and Ben Dwarshuis is seen as a boost, though questions may linger about their match readiness or impact.

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Zimbabwe's bowling unit, described as "bustling," is expected to pose a challenge, particularly with Blessing Muzarabani's potential to exploit conditions early in the innings. Australia's ability to counter-attack will be crucial against this potent pace attack.

The significant number of injuries for Australia presents a considerable challenge, while Zimbabwe's pace attack is identified as a key strength.

Conclusion and Future Implications

Australia's decision to bowl first, coupled with their injury concerns and the historical T20 World Cup record against Zimbabwe, sets a compelling stage for the match. Both teams are vying for progression in the tournament, with this fixture being crucial for Super 8 qualification. Zimbabwe's recent form and Australia's need to overcome their injury woes will be significant factors in determining the outcome.

Sources Used:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who won the toss between Australia and Zimbabwe?
Australia won the toss. They decided to bowl first in the match.
Q: Is Mitchell Marsh playing for Australia?
No, Mitchell Marsh is not playing. He has a groin injury.
Q: What is Zimbabwe's recent form?
Zimbabwe has won their last four T20 matches. They won their first game in the World Cup against Oman.
Q: Has Australia ever beaten Zimbabwe in a T20 World Cup?
No, Australia has never beaten Zimbabwe in a T20 World Cup before this match.
Q: Where is the match being played?
The match is being played at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.