ZIMBABWE stormed into the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup after brushing aside Kenya by seven wickets in the Africa Qualifier semi-final at Harare Sports Club on Thursday afternoon.
The win sealed their place at the global tournament, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Kenya, who won the toss and batted first, posted 122 for six in their 20 overs. The innings was carried almost single-handedly by Rakep Patel, who struck 65 from 47 balls with eight fours and one six.
None of the other Kenyan batters passed 20, as Zimbabwe’s attack kept things tight. Blessing Muzarabani bowled with fire and discipline, finishing with two for 19 in four overs, while Richard Ngarava (1/31), Bradley Evans (1/21) and young spinner Tinotenda Maposa (1/18) chipped in with key wickets.
In response, Zimbabwe’s top order showed ruthless intent. Brian Bennett scored 51 off just 25 balls, including eight boundaries and two sixes, accelerating the chase. Tadiwanashe Marumani added 39 off 27 before Ryan Burl (16 not out) and Tony Munyonga (3 not out) calmly steered Zimbabwe home with 30 balls to spare, finishing on 123/3 in 15 overs.
While skipper Sikandar Raza fell cheaply for 10, the result was never in doubt once Bennett and Marumani tore into the Kenyan attack during the powerplay, racing to 70 without loss in the first six overs.
The victory means Zimbabwe are assured of a spot in next year’s T20 World Cup regardless of the outcome of Saturday’s Africa Qualifier final against Namibia.
