Zimbabwe to host Australia for ODI series in September

Zimbabwe Cricket has announced that they will welcome Australia for a three-match One-Day International (ODI) series this September, having already confirmed a T20I series at home against T20 World Cup winners India in July.

The series will commence on September 15, with the second and third matches scheduled to be played on September 18 and 20. All fixtures are set to begin at 09:30 hours local time.

This tour is particularly significant as it marks Australia’s first ODI visit to the country in more than a decade. The two sides last met on Zimbabwean soil in this format during a triangular series in August and September of 2014, a tournament that also featured South Africa.

For the hosts, this series forms a crucial part of their preparation for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, a marquee tournament that Zimbabwe is set to co-host alongside South Africa and Namibia.

Zimbabwe Cricket Managing Director Givemore Makoni expressed his excitement, noting that the upcoming series arrives at an important developmental stage for the national team.

“We are delighted to welcome Australia back to Zimbabwe for what promises to be a highly competitive ODI series,” Makoni said.

“Fixtures of this calibre are vital for our growth as a team. With the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 on the horizon, this tour provides invaluable preparation as we build towards hosting the tournament alongside South Africa and Namibia."

Makoni also welcomed the prospect of treating the local crowds to high-quality international action.

“It is also a fantastic opportunity for our fans to experience top-level international cricket at home, and we look forward to strong support at Harare Sports Club,” he added.

ODI series schedule:

First ODI: 15 September, Harare Sports Club

Second ODI: 18 September, Harare Sports Club

Third ODI: 20 September, Harare Sports Club