(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Zimbabwe Qualify for 2026 T20 World Cup After Dominant Win Over Kenya
Oct 3, 2025
Zimbabwe have secured their place in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after a commanding seven-wicket victory against Kenya in the semi-final of the Africa Qualifier. The win marks Zimbabwe’s return to the global stage, having missed out on the 2024 edition.
Zimbabwe’s Powerful Chase
Chasing a modest target of 123, Zimbabwe’s top order came out firing. Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani dismantled Kenya’s bowling attack with a blistering 70-run partnership in the powerplay.
Bennett stole the spotlight with a rapid 51 off 25 balls, smashing eight boundaries and a six to put Zimbabwe firmly in control. Although the openers and skipper Sikandar Raza departed before the finish line, Ryan Burl and Tony Munyonga calmly completed the chase in the 15th over.
Africa’s Representatives Confirmed
With this victory, Zimbabwe joined Namibia, who beat Tanzania earlier in the day, and South Africa as Africa’s three representatives for the upcoming World Cup.
So far, 17 of the 20 teams have confirmed their spots in the 2026 T20 World Cup, with only three remaining from the Asian Qualifiers.
Qualified Teams for 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup
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India (Host Nation)
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Sri Lanka (Host Nation)
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Afghanistan (2024 T20 World Cup)
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Australia (2024 T20 World Cup)
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Bangladesh (2024 T20 World Cup)
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England (2024 T20 World Cup)
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South Africa (2024 T20 World Cup)
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United States (2024 T20 World Cup)
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West Indies (2024 T20 World Cup)
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Ireland (ICC Rankings)
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Pakistan (ICC Rankings)
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New Zealand (ICC Rankings)
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Canada (Americas Qualifier)
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Netherlands (Europe Qualifier)
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Italy (Europe Qualifier)
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Zimbabwe (Africa Qualifier)
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Namibia (Africa Qualifier)
A Resurgence for Zimbabwe
This qualification is a major morale boost for Zimbabwe cricket. Missing out in 2024 was a setback, but their strong performance in the qualifiers highlights a team on the rise, ready to compete against the world’s best in 2026.
