ZIMBABWE opener Brian Bennett struck a sparkling half-century to guide his side to a seven-wicket win over Kenya in the Africa Qualifier semi-final at Harare Sports Club on Thursday, booking their place at the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
Kenya, who won the toss and chose to bat, were unable to break free against a composed Zimbabwe attack and finished on 122 for six from their 20 overs. Rakep Patel stood tall with a strong 65 from 47 balls, striking eight fours and a six, but he received little support. Sachin Gill (19) and Jasraj Kundi (13 not out) reached double figures, as Blessing Muzarabani (2/19) struck early.
Richard Ngarava, Brad Evans and Tinotenda Maposa chipped in with a wicket apiece.
Set 123 to win, Zimbabwe’s reply was all about Bennett’s explosive stroke play. The 21-year-old right-hander wasted no time, lifting the second ball of the innings for six and then tearing into Lucas Ndandason in the fourth over, smashing six consecutive boundaries.
He reached a scorching fifty from just 24 deliveries before falling the very next ball for 51, caught by Kundi off Vraj Patel. By that stage, Zimbabwe were already cruising at 76 for one inside seven overs.
Tadiwanashe Marumani added a quick 39 off 27 balls, while Ryan Burl (16 not out) and Tony Munyonga (3 not out) completed the chase with ease in 15 overs with 33 balls to spare.
For Kenya, Vraj Patel was the pick of the bowlers with two for 29, while captain Dhiren Gondaria kept things tight with one for 17.
The victory secured Zimbabwe’s return to the T20 World Cup after missing out in 2024.
