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Zimbabwe Stuns Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup 2026 Thriller: Bennett and Raza Lead Tense Chase to Victory

Zimbabwe delivered a masterclass in Group B of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, toppling hosts Sri Lanka by 6 wickets in a nail-biting chase at Colombo. Chasing a target of 174, the Chevrons showcased depth across batting and bowling, with Brian Bennett’s explosive 70 off 49 balls and captain Sikandar Raza’s unbeaten 62 steering them home with 5 balls to spare. Sri Lanka posted 173/6 thanks to half-centuries from Pathum Nissanka (60) and Kusal Mendis (52), but Zimbabwe’s bowlers led by Blessing Muzarabani’s 3/25  kept things tight. This win propelled Zimbabwe to the top of Group B, boosting their Super 8s hopes. Relive the action in the ICC’s official match highlights video . Key Performances and Turning Points Bennett’s aggressive knock, featuring 5 sixes and 6 fours, set the tone after early wickets, while Raza’s composed finish under pressure sealed the deal amid a roaring Colombo crowd. Muzarabani’s death-over yorkers restricted Sri Lanka, who lost momentum after a strong p...

Can Pakistan Bounce Back? Unraveling the Challenges After a 6-1 Defeat to Tajikistan in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers


 In a disheartening turn of events at Jinnah Stadium, Islamabad, Pakistan faced defeat 6–1 against Tajikistan in their recent FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers match. The setback revealed countless challenges, ranging from player fitness to fundamental issues in the team structure.

Struggles on the Field

Patience appeared to be missing temperance as Pakistani players more than once lost belonging, overseeing just 29% of the ball & making only four attempts at goal. The rush toward the goal led to an inability to play composed football, and the reliance on long balls failed to threaten Tajikistan’s solid defensive line.

Structural Woes

Tajikistan cleverly exploited empty spaces, scoring three goals from outside the box. The midfield’s failure to press at the right time and cover spaces left the team vulnerable and out of sync with the intensity of the match.

Missing Pieces

The absence of key players added to Pakistan’s woes. Skipper Easah Suliman, pivotal in the historic win against Cambodia, was sidelined due to a meniscus injury. His leadership was sorely missed on the field. Moreover, the suspension of beginning right-back Rao Umar Hayat left a protective hole that Tajikistan took advantage of pitilessly. The absence of Shayak Dost, a reliable right-winger with defensive prowess, further weakened the team.

With 10 goals conceded in two games, the road ahead for Pakistan in the qualifiers appears challenging. The upcoming match against Jordan on March 21, 2024, holds immense significance. The spotlight now turns to head coach Stephen Constantine and the measures he plans to implement in the coming months to shore up the team’s structure & reignite their chances of progression. The question looms: Can Pakistan bounce back from this setback? The footballing world eagerly awaits the answer.

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