Taylor ruled out after Oman match injury
Taylor, 40, had retired hurt after scoring 31 off 30 balls in Zimbabwe’s run chase against Oman on February 9. He appeared uncomfortable while running between the wickets and was taken off the field as a precaution. Captain Sikandar Raza confirmed at the toss ahead of the Australia game that the experienced batter would play no further part in the competition.
Â
Â
The injury adds to Taylor’s recent fitness concerns, with the veteran having retired hurt multiple times in recent T20 appearances. Since making his international debut in 2004, he has represented Zimbabwe in 36 Tests, 207 ODIs and 59 T20Is, making him one of the most experienced players in the squad
Ben Curran named replacement
Following Taylor’s withdrawal, the tournament’s Event Technical Committee cleared Ben Curran to join the Zimbabwe squad. As per ICC regulations, any mid-tournament replacement requires official approval before the new player can be added to the roster. Curran’s inclusion provides Zimbabwe with an additional batting option as they continue their campaign.
Ngarava rested as precaution
Zimbabwe were also without pacer Richard Ngarava in the Australia clash, with Raza confirming the decision was precautionary despite positive scan results. The team management opted to avoid risking the seamer’s fitness during a packed schedule.
Zimbabwe down Australia
Despite the setback of losing Taylor, Zimbabwe delivered a strong performance to defeat Australia by 23 runs. A solid batting effort laid the foundation, with Tadiwanashe Marumani providing early momentum and Brian Bennett anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 64. Skipper Raza’s late cameo pushed Zimbabwe to 169 for 2.
Â
Their bowlers then dismantled Australia’s top order, reducing them to 29 for four inside the powerplay. Glenn Maxwell and Matt Renshaw attempted a recovery, but regular breakthroughs from Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans and Ryan Burl ensured Zimbabwe wrapped up the victory, bowling Australia out for 146.
