Pallekele International Cricket Stadium witnessed a heartbreaking twist on February 17 as heavy downpours abandoned the Ireland-Zimbabwe T20 World Cup 2026 encounter pre-toss. Both sides split a point, a result that mathematically ended Australia’s Super 8 hopes in Group B.
The Chevrons of Zimbabwe celebrate securing second place with five points. Their campaign boasts wins over Oman (8 wickets) and a memorable 23-run triumph over Australia, where they amassed 169/2 before restricting the favorites to 146 all out. Australia, with two defeats in three, sits bottom of the table.
Sri Lanka advances alongside Zimbabwe, leaving Ireland and Oman behind. The Aussies’ last gasp comes against Oman on February 20, but even success nets only four points—insufficient against Zimbabwe’s lead. Zimbabwe eyes Super 8 glory, facing West Indies on February 23, India on 26th, and South Africa on March 1.
This no-result game underscores weather’s cruel role in cricket, propelling underdogs forward and sending giants packing early in what promised to be a fiercely contested group stage.