Marumani, soft-spoken opener making loud World Cup impact
Austin Karonga
MSN|27-02-2026
TADIWANASHE Marumani's bat has been speaking louder than words at the T20 Cricket World Cup, with the opener enjoying his moment on the crease.
Partnered with on fire Brian Bennett, they are taking no prisoners, setting the team up for success whether they are chasing or setting targets.
Bennett has been unstoppable, top-scoring in every match Zimbabwe has won, and he's yet to be dismissed.
The right-hander scored 48 against Oman, 64 against Australia, and 63 against Sri Lanka - all unbeaten and in winning causes.
On the other hand, Marumani, playing as a missile launch pad for Zimbabwe, has scored 21, 35 and 34, twice ensuring that the Chevrons negotiate the mandatory powerplay without losing a wicket.
The Zimbabwean opener has been driving his team towards good scores, and his contributions have been instrumental in the team's success.
But what is striking about Marumani is his soft-spoken nature, a stark contrast to the aggression he displays on the field.
Growing up in the dusty streets of Chitungwiza, Marumani's journey to international stardom is nothing short of inspiring.
He honed his skills playing for St Aidens cricket club, where his talent and dedication earned him a spot in the Zimbabwean team.
At Aidens produced talented players, including Wessly Madhevere, Clive Madande, Tonny Munyonga, Milton Shumba among other players who went on to don the national team jersey.
In an exclusive interview with the Standardsport in Colombo, Marumani opened up about his experiences, his partnership with Bennett, and the team's dynamics.
"For me, it's just about keeping things simple and reacting to what's in front of me," he said, explaining his approach to batting.
Marumani's cademeanour was evident as he spoke about the team's win over Sri Lanka, which propelled them to the summit of Group B heading into the Super 8 stage.
"We're just grateful and happy everyone is chuffed for the win," he said, beaming with pride.
The opener's partnership with Bennett has been a highlight of Zimbabwe's campaign.
The duo has gelled well, and their different styles have complemented each other.
I and I gel together. We're two different athletes with two different styles of play," Marumani said.
Zimbabwe, unbeaten at the T20 World Cup, now prepares to take on the best teams in the Super 8 stage.
"I'm excited for the challenge, and I'm looking forward to playing in India," he said. His goals are simple: keep things simple and execute.
Marumani's humility and selflessness are traits that have endeared him to fans who have since christened him Lord Marumani, lord of the bat.
When asked about the loud atmosphere during the Sri Lanka match, he said, "It was really loud, and it was my first experience playing cricket in that stadium. It was exciting and a bit nerve-wracking," added Marumani.
The team's dressing room is filled with experienced players led by ICC T20I leading all-rounder and captain Sikandar Raza, who has played across the globe. Marumani praised Raza's influence.
"Having someone like Raza in our changing room, who's played all around the world... I think that experience and inspiration have played a big role in our team," he admitted.
"If we just stick to our processes and things that have been working for us, I'm sure the result will take care of itself," he said.
In the high-pressure world of international cricket, Marumani's soft-spoken nature is a breath of fresh air. His batting, however, is anything but soft. It's a loud statement of intent from a young cadre who is making waves in the cricketing world.