Australia defeated Zimbabwe by 59 runs in the first ODI of the three-match series at Harare Sports Club on September 15. Australia posted 294/8 in 50 overs, with Matt Renshaw scoring his maiden ODI century, before Zimbabwe were bowled out for 235 in 45.1 overs.
The win gives Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. The second ODI is scheduled for Friday in Harare.
Australia vs Zimbabwe 1st ODI: Match Result
Australia: 294/8 (50 overs)
Zimbabwe: 235 all out (45.1 overs)
Result: Australia won by 59 runs
Matt Renshaw was the standout performer with 109 runs from 94 balls, while Nathan Ellis produced the decisive bowling performance with 5/31 in 9.1 overs.
Australia Innings: Matt Renshaw Hits Maiden ODI Century
Australia chose to bat first and finished with 294/8 from their 50 overs.
Renshaw anchored the innings with a superb 109, his first century in ODI cricket. He also became the key player in Australia’s recovery after the visitors lost wickets during the middle part of the innings.
Cooper Connolly contributed 51 off 46 balls, while Renshaw built important partnerships with Alex Carey and Ollie Peake.
Zimbabwe’s Newman Nyamhuri was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with 5/62. It was a significant performance for the young Zimbabwean fast bowler.
Australia Scorecard
| Batter | Runs |
|---|---|
| Matt Renshaw | 109 (94) |
| Cooper Connolly | 51 (46) |
| Mitchell Marsh | 36 |
| Ollie Peake | 30 |
| Alex Carey | 27 |
| Australia | 294/8 (50) |
Key figures from the published match scorecard.
Zimbabwe Innings: Ervine and Raza Fight Back
Chasing 295, Zimbabwe were eventually bowled out for 235 in 45.1 overs.
The hosts initially struggled against Australia’s bowling attack but fought back through Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza. The pair put together a 98-run partnership, briefly giving Zimbabwe hope of chasing down the target.
Ervine scored 59 from 60 balls, while captain Raza made 57 from 76 balls. Their dismissals, however, ended Zimbabwe’s strongest period of resistance.
Nathan Ellis Takes Five Wickets
Australia’s victory was completed by Nathan Ellis, who returned figures of 5/31 in 9.1 overs.
Ellis took two wickets in his first spell before returning later in the innings to remove Ervine and clean up Zimbabwe’s lower order. Spencer Johnson also dismissed Sikandar Raza for 57.
Zimbabwe Scorecard
| Batter | Runs |
|---|---|
| Craig Ervine | 59 (60) |
| Sikandar Raza | 57 (76) |
| Brian Bennett | 25 |
| Wessly Madhevere | 22 |
| Innocent Kaia | 18 |
| Zimbabwe | 235 all out (45.1) |
Key figures from the published scorecard.
Australia vs Zimbabwe Highlights
The major highlights from the first ODI were:
- Matt Renshaw scored 109, his maiden ODI century.
- Australia reached 294/8 after 50 overs.
- Zimbabwe’s Newman Nyamhuri claimed 5/62.
- Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza added 98 runs for Zimbabwe.
- Ervine scored 59 and Raza made 57.
- Nathan Ellis finished with 5/31.
- Zimbabwe were bowled out for 235 in 45.1 overs.
- Australia won by 59 runs and took a 1-0 series lead.
Who Was Player of the Match?
Matt Renshaw was named Player of the Match after his century helped Australia establish a winning total. He scored 109 from 94 balls and played a central role in Australia’s innings.
What Happens Next in Australia vs Zimbabwe?
The second ODI between Zimbabwe and Australia is scheduled for September 18 in Harare. The third ODI will follow on September 20, also in Harare.
Australia therefore enters the second match with a 1-0 series lead, while Zimbabwe will look to level the series.
FAQ
Who won Australia vs Zimbabwe 1st ODI?
Australia won the first ODI by 59 runs. Australia scored 294/8, while Zimbabwe were dismissed for 235.
What was Australia’s score against Zimbabwe?
Australia scored 294/8 in 50 overs.
What was Zimbabwe’s score?
Zimbabwe scored 235 all out in 45.1 overs.
Who scored a century for Australia?
Matt Renshaw scored 109 runs, registering his maiden ODI century.
Who took five wickets for Australia?
Nathan Ellis took five wickets for 31 runs in 9.1 overs.
Who was Player of the Match?
Matt Renshaw was named Player of the Match for his 109-run innings.
When is the next Australia vs Zimbabwe ODI?
The second ODI is scheduled for September 18, 2026, in Harare.
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