Flashback: Zimbabwe beat Australia in 2007 T20 WC

Not always do the fans witness something of this stature as the Zimbabwe side pushed above their weight to go past the Australian side in the maiden edition of the T20 World Cup in 2007. The men in yellow had a line of match winners in their squad and it was always going to be difficult given their domination across all three formats. However, Zimbabwe produced magic and the victory certainly proved to be memorable for ages among the fans.

Australia elected to bat first after winning the toss at the Newlands in Cape Town and Elton Chigumbura managed to get rid of both openers cheaply. Skipper Ricky Ponting did not last long either and Michael Hussey department after adding 15 runs. Andrew Symonds and Brad Hodge rescued the innings for a while with a small partnership, however, Symonds was dismissed at the wrong time and Brad Haddin struggled in his 12-ball 6.

Some lusty blows down the order from Brett Lee and a strong finish from Hodge ensured that the Australian side got to 138 for 9 in their 20 overs. Chigumbura was the pick of the bowlers with 3 for 20 in his four overs and Australia needed to be at their best with the ball to have any chances.

Chasing almost seven every over, Zimbabwe openers Vusi Sibanda and Brendan Taylor started on a positive note with 31. Sibanda perished for 23 and Taylor alongside Chamu Chibhabha did find the boundaries inside the powerplay. Tatenda Taibu and Stuart Matsikenyeri could do much of damage while Hamilton Masakadza provided good support for Taylor.

With 16 needed off the last nine deliveries, Masakadza was dismissed for 27 and it was down to Taylor to take his side home. He reached a fantastic half-century in a tough scenario and he brought down to eight needed off the last five balls by starting the final over with a boundary. Four leg byes also helped as Zimbabwe produced a sensational victory with one ball to spare on the back of Taylor’s brilliance who remained unbeaten on 60 off 45 balls.