Australia completed a 3-0 series whitewash against Zimbabwe at Harare Sports Club on September 20, 2026, securing a one-wicket victory with one ball remaining. A second international century from Josh Inglis and a 27-run final-wicket stand allowed the visitors to reach the 273-run target after falling to 245/9.
Nathan Ellis produced a career-best 36* from 44 balls to guide the tail home, sharing the match-winning partnership with Spencer Johnson (7*). Josh Inglis provided the foundation of the chase with 103 off 101 balls. Named Player of the Match, Inglis noted his improvement after earlier games in the series. “I was disappointed with my output in the last couple of games. To get a score that helps us win the game today, yeah, pretty happy,” Inglis said.
The match featured the return of 40-year-old leg-spinner Graeme Cremer, who played his first ODI for Zimbabwe since 2018. Cremer finished with 2-53 from nine overs, including the wicket of Cooper Connolly. Despite the dismissal, Connolly was named Player of the Series following Australia’s clean sweep.
Zimbabwe posted 272 in their innings, though the total was impacted by a hamstring injury to Innocent Kaia. The opener was forced to retire hurt after scoring 55. Analysis of the match highlights a gap in Zimbabwe’s finishing capabilities; captain Sikandar Raza opted to bowl off-spinner Wessly Madhevere in the final over instead of a primary frontline bowler. Cremer’s successful return at 40 also points to Zimbabwe’s current reliance on veterans during the 2027 World Cup cycle, particularly with Richard Ngarava absent due to a lower-back injury.
Raza expressed pride in the defensive effort despite the loss. “To make a game out of 272 was certainly a great effort, as a captain I am really proud. Yes, it really hurts, but there’s lots to learn,” Raza said.
