Full Breakdown
Australia clinches dramatic one-wicket win over Zimbabwe to complete 3-0 ODI sweep
By Drooid · · How we work
The Decisive Chase
On September 20, 2026, Australia chased down Zimbabwe’s target of 272 runs at Harare Sports Club, winning by a single wicket with one ball remaining. After nine wickets fell, the lower order of Nathan Ellis (36 not out, 44 balls) and Spencer Johnson (7 not out) added the required 27 runs at roughly a run-a-ball, with Ellis striking a six on the first ball of the final over to bring the equation to three runs. The partnership secured Australia’s third consecutive victory in the three-match series.
Background & Context
The series marked Australia’s first tour of Zimbabwe in 12 years. Zimbabwe won the toss and elected to bat first in the third ODI, posting 271/8 in their allotted 50 overs. The series had already been decided in Australia’s favour, with 59-run and 84-run wins in the first two matches. The final game therefore offered Zimbabwe a chance to salvage a consolation win, while Australia aimed to complete a clean sweep before heading to South Africa for a three-match ODI series that begins in Durban on Thursday.
Data & Statistics
- Zimbabwe innings: 271/8 (50 overs) – top scores: Sikandar Raza 81* (72 balls, 7 fours, 1 six), Craig Ervine 59 (79 balls), Innocent Kaia 55 (66 balls, retired hurt with a hamstring injury).
- Australia innings: 272/9 (49.5 overs) – top scores: Josh Inglis 103 (102 balls, 11 fours), Nathan Ellis 36* (44 balls, 2 fours, 1 six), Alex Carey 34 (30 balls).
- Bowling figures: Nathan Ellis 3/50 (10 overs) and Spencer Johnson 2/50 (10 overs) for Australia; Brad Evans 4/47 (10 overs) for Zimbabwe.
- Key turning points: Early wickets of Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh for Australia; Ellis’s six off the first ball of the final over; two dropped catches by Wessly Madhevere (penultimate over and final over).
Official Statements & Responses
Australia captain Mitchell Marsh described the finish as “a great game of cricket” and praised his teammates for delivering under pressure. Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza called the effort “a great effort” and expressed pride in his side’s performance despite the loss.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I thought 280-290 was par with the bat so to make a game out of 272 was a great effort,” — Sikandar Raza, captain
- “To do it for your country and with my mate Spence at the other end there, it was pretty cool,” — Nathan Ellis
On-the-Ground Report
The match swung in Zimbabwe’s favour when Wessly Madhevere dropped Ellis in the penultimate over, allowing the No 9 bowler to remain at the crease. With nine runs required from the final over, Ellis hit a six off the first delivery and followed with a single to clinch the win. Earlier, Brad Evans had reduced Australia to 245/9 by dismissing Adam Zampa, and a series of wickets fell at regular intervals, keeping the chase tense until the final partnership.
What’s Next
Following the series sweep, the Australian team will travel to South Africa for a three-match ODI series, the first of which is scheduled to begin in Durban on Thursday.
