Australia national cricket team will travel to face Zimbabwe national cricket team in a three-match ODI series in September, with all matches scheduled at Harare Sports Club.
The series will begin on September 15, followed by matches on September 18 and September 20. All games will be played in Harare, offering both sides consistent conditions.
Zimbabwe’s rise after T20 World Cup upset
Zimbabwe arrive with growing confidence after recent results. They beat Australia in the 2026 T20 World Cup, a result that drew attention across international cricket. That defeat was part of a poor campaign for Australia, who failed to progress beyond the group stage.
Zimbabwe, in contrast, went unbeaten in that phase, beating Sri Lanka, Ireland and Oman along with Australia. The side, led by experienced players such as Sikandar Raza, has shown steady improvement in white-ball cricket and is no longer seen as an easy opponent.
Australia also lost their last ODI against Zimbabwe in 2022, though they won the series overall. Zimbabwe’s record at home, including a win over Australia in 2014, adds further context to the challenge.
Important preparation ahead of ODI World Cup
The series forms part of the build-up to the next 50-over World Cup, which Zimbabwe will co-host alongside South Africa and Namibia. These matches could provide useful preparation if Australia return for the tournament.
Busy calendar continues for Australia
Australia’s schedule remains packed, with white-ball tours to Pakistan and Bangladesh in June, followed by a home Test series against Bangladesh in August.
After Zimbabwe, Australia will travel to South Africa for three ODIs and a Test series. Selector George Bailey said the team is working to improve its performances in major tournaments, despite strong bilateral results.