Australia's ODI Tour to Zimbabwe Set for September
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Harare, April 2 (NationPress) Zimbabwe Cricket has officially revealed that Australia will visit for a three-match ODI series in September, marking the first time in over ten years that Australia has played ODIs in Zimbabwe.
The last encounter between the two teams on Zimbabwean soil took place during a triangular series in August/September 2014, which also included South Africa.
The series will kick off on September 15, with matches scheduled for September 18 and September 20. All games will occur at Harare Sports Club. This series is significant for Zimbabwe’s preparations leading up to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, which they will co-host with South Africa and Namibia.
ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni expressed that this tour is crucial for the team’s development. He stated, "We are thrilled to host Australia for what is anticipated to be a fiercely contested ODI series. Fixtures of this nature are essential for our progression as a team, especially with the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027 approaching. This tour offers critical preparation as we gear up to host the tournament alongside South Africa and Namibia."
Makoni added, "This is also a wonderful chance for our fans to witness high-level international cricket at home, and we hope for robust support at Harare Sports Club."
Zimbabwe has recently been a challenging opponent for Australian teams. Most notably, Australia’s T20 squad faced a 23-run defeat against Zimbabwe at the T20 World Cup in February, leading to an unexpected group stage exit.
Additionally, Australia’s 50-over team faced a setback in their last outing against Zimbabwe, losing by three wickets in Townsville in September 2022, despite it being the final match of a series that Australia won 2-1.
For Zimbabwe, this series against Australia will follow three T20 matches against India. They are also set to travel to India in January 2027 for another three ODIs.