T20 World Cup: Australia eliminated, Zimbabwe reach Super 8s

The 2021 edition’s champions, Australia, are officially knocked out from the group stage of the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 after the Group B clash between Zimbabwe and Ireland was washed out without a ball being bowled due to consistent rain in Pallekele on Tuesday.

Australia’s qualification hopes were already dashed on Monday after an eight-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka in Kandy at the very same venue. In reply to 181, Pathum Nissanka produced a stellar 100* off just 52 balls, guiding the co-hosts to a phenomenal victory in just 18 overs and confirming their place in the Super 8 stage.

Australia have had a nightmarish outing in this World Cup, having lost to Zimbabwe by 23 runs as well. The Kangaroos’ maiden win in this campaign came against Ireland, where the Australians registered a 67-run triumph in their opening game in Colombo.

Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe have advanced to the next stage from Group B. England, India, South Africa, New Zealand, and the West Indies have also procured their berths in the Super 8 stage, with only one position remaining, which Pakistan and the USA are jostling for.