Australia Clinches ODI Series with Nail-Biting Win Over Zimbabwe

In a gripping finale, Australia edged out Zimbabwe by one wicket in the third ODI at Harare Sports Club, completing a 3-0 series sweep. Zimbabwe set a competitive total of 271 runs, with notable contributions from Innocent Kaia and Sikandar Raza. Despite a shaky start, Josh Inglis's century and a tense final-wicket partnership led Australia to victory. The match showcased Zimbabwe's resilience, making it a memorable conclusion to the series. Discover the key moments and performances that defined this thrilling encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 20, 2026, 22:28 IST

Australia Secures Series Sweep

In a thrilling conclusion, Australia triumphed over Zimbabwe by a narrow margin of one wicket in the third ODI held at Harare Sports Club, thereby completing a clean sweep of the series with a 3-0 victory.

Zimbabwe Sets a Challenging Target

Earlier in the match, Zimbabwe opted to bat first and managed to set a challenging total of 271 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. Josh Inglis played a pivotal role in the chase, scoring a well-crafted 103 runs off 102 balls. The innings was bolstered by half-centuries from Innocent Kaia and Craig Ervine, who contributed 55 and 59 runs respectively, forming an 80-run partnership before Kaia had to retire due to a hamstring injury. Captain Sikandar Raza finished strong for Zimbabwe, remaining not out with a brisk 81 runs off 72 balls.

Australia's Bowlers Respond

Australia's bowlers made a significant impact during the death overs, with Nathan Ellis taking 3 wickets for 50 runs, while both Spencer Johnson and Adam Zampa claimed two wickets each.

Inglis's Century Fuels Australian Chase

The Australian innings began on a shaky note as they found themselves at 25 for 2, thanks to Brad Evans' early breakthroughs. However, Josh Inglis steadied the ship with a composed century, scoring 103 runs off 102 balls, and received crucial support from Alex Carey, who added 34 runs from 30 balls.

Zimbabwe's Resilient Comeback

Despite Inglis's solid performance, Zimbabwe mounted a fierce comeback, causing Australia to falter from a strong position to 245 for 8 in 45 overs. Brad Evans was instrumental in this resurgence, finishing with impressive bowling figures of 4 wickets for 47 runs, keeping Zimbabwe in the hunt until the very end.

A Tense Finish

As Australia required 27 runs in the final overs, the match reached a nail-biting climax. Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa showcased remarkable composure during the tense final-wicket partnership, ultimately leading Australia to a total of 272 runs for 9 wickets in 49.5 overs.

Series Conclusion

This victory not only secured a 3-0 series win for Australia but also highlighted Zimbabwe's spirited performance, making the series finale a memorable encounter.