The ninth match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Africa Qualifier will feature a high-stakes Group B clash between Zimbabwe and Tanzania at Harare Sports Club on Tuesday. Zimbabwe currently sit on top of the group with four points from two matches, while Tanzania follow closely in second with two points. Both sides have started the tournament positively, but Zimbabwe’s depth, experience, and form make them strong favorites heading into this encounter.
Zimbabwe Preview: A Balanced and Dominant Side
Zimbabwe have looked unstoppable so far, with back-to-back wins against Uganda and Botswana. These results not only placed them firmly at the top of Group B but also highlighted their balance in both batting and bowling. Another win here would all but secure their spot in the semi-finals.
At the top of the order, Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani provide a steady yet aggressive opening partnership. Bennett has been in sensational touch, amassing 137 runs in just two innings at a blistering strike rate of 178. His consistency has given Zimbabwe early momentum in both games.
The middle order is anchored by veterans Brendan Taylor and captain Sikandar Raza. Taylor has been especially dominant, leading the team’s batting charts with 162 runs at a strike rate of 200. With Raza’s leadership and Ryan Burl’s ability to add quick runs, Zimbabwe’s batting lineup looks both deep and dangerous.
On the bowling front, Zimbabwe have combined pace and spin effectively. Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani have already taken eight wickets between them, troubling batters with their variations. Brad Evans and Raza have chipped in with timely wickets as well, ensuring pressure is never far from the opposition.
Zimbabwe Predicted XI:
Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brendan Taylor (wk), Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Tinotenda Maposa, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani
Tanzania Preview: Battling Spirit, But a Tough Test Ahead
Tanzania have surprised many with their fighting spirit, having opened their campaign with wins over Botswana and Uganda. Those victories give them confidence, but facing Zimbabwe — a team brimming with international experience — will be their toughest challenge yet.
Arun Yadav has been the standout performer with the bat, scoring 81 runs in two games and setting the tone at the top. Captain Abhik Patwa has provided stability in the middle order with 50 runs so far, while Ajith Augastin and Kassim Nassoro have shown flashes of reliability. Tanzania will need all of them to step up against Zimbabwe’s strong attack.
With the ball, Tanzania have been quietly impressive. Khalidy Juma has been their standout bowler, picking up four wickets at an economy of just 4.62. Ally Kimote has also claimed four wickets while keeping runs under control. Augastin and Sivaraj Selvaraj provide additional depth, allowing Tanzania to rotate their attack and maintain pressure.
Tanzania Predicted XI:
Arun Yadav, Abhik Patwa (c), Ajith Augastin, Kassim Nassoro, Amal Rajeevan (wk), Mukesh Suthar, Salum Jumbe, Sivaraj Selvaraj, Ally Kimote, Laksh Bakrania, Khalidy Juma
Pitch and Weather Conditions in Harare
The Harare Sports Club surface has proven to be dry and slightly slow, creating a balance between bat and ball. Spin bowlers tend to find grip early, while seamers can exploit some movement with the new ball. Batters who adapt to the low bounce and build their innings carefully are usually rewarded later on.
The weather forecast is clear and sunny, ensuring that a full match is expected without interruptions.
- Average first-innings score: Around 154
- Par score for this fixture: 170–180
- Toss prediction: Teams winning the toss should bat first, as three of the last four T20Is at this venue during the qualifier have been won by the side setting a target.
Match Prediction: Zimbabwe vs Tanzania
Tanzania have shown resilience and promise in their first two matches, proving they can compete with higher-ranked teams. However, Zimbabwe’s mix of international experience, red-hot batting form, and variety in bowling makes them the superior side on paper.
If Tanzania are to cause an upset, their top order will need to fire and their bowlers must keep Zimbabwe’s big names in check. Otherwise, Zimbabwe’s depth across departments is likely to see them through comfortably.
Prediction: Zimbabwe to win.
