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Australia will begin their preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup when they take on Zimbabwe in the first ODI of the three-match series at Harare Sports Club on September 15. The opening game will mark the start of an important six-match ODI tour of Zimbabwe and South Africa, with Australia looking to build a settled combination ahead of next year’s World Cup.
Mitchell Marsh will captain the Australian side in Zimbabwe, with Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc unavailable for this leg of the tour. Both Cummins and Starc are expected to join the squad for the subsequent ODI series against South Africa. Travis Head also returns after missing Australia’s previous ODI assignments, adding considerable firepower to the top order.
Australia have named a strong 15-player squad for the Zimbabwe series, featuring established names alongside several players looking to secure their places in the World Cup plans.
Here is Australia’s predicted playing XI for the first ODI.
Travis Head should return to the top of Australia’s ODI batting order. The left-hander’s aggressive approach makes him one of the most dangerous opening batters in the format. After missing Australia’s recent ODI series, Head will be eager to make an immediate impact and establish momentum ahead of the World Cup.
Josh Inglis is likely to partner Head at the top of the order. The right-hander has established himself as an aggressive white-ball batter and can put pressure on opposition bowlers during the Powerplay. His wicketkeeping ability also gives Australia flexibility, although Alex Carey remains another option behind the stumps.
Captain Mitchell Marsh will be one of Australia’s most important players in the series. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball provides balance to the XI. Marsh’s leadership will also be under the spotlight as Australia begin an important World Cup preparation phase.
Cameron Green could occupy the crucial No. 4 position. The tall all-rounder provides Australia with a combination of batting stability and seam-bowling options. With Marnus Labuschagne omitted from the squad, Green has an opportunity to strengthen his position in Australia’s middle order.
Alex Carey could return as Australia’s wicketkeeper-batter. His experience in ODI cricket makes him a reliable option in the middle order, particularly if Australia lose early wickets. Carey can also accelerate when required, making him a valuable presence in the latter half of the innings.
Cooper Connolly is another youngster expected to receive a significant opportunity during the Zimbabwe series. The left-handed batter has been earmarked as part of Australia’s future plans and can also provide useful left-arm spin. His ability to contribute in multiple departments could make him an important squad member ahead of the World Cup.
Matthew Renshaw could get the nod at No. 7, providing Australia with another left-handed batting option. He has been included in the squad as Australia continue to assess their middle-order depth. Renshaw’s ability to bat through the innings could be useful on potentially slower African pitches.
Nathan Ellis is likely to lead Australia’s pace attack in the absence of Cummins and Starc. The right-arm seamer is particularly effective with his variations and death bowling. Ellis has also made it clear that he is targeting a place in Australia’s 2027 World Cup squad, making this series an important opportunity.
Josh Hazlewood should spearhead the attack with his accuracy and experience. The veteran pacer remains one of Australia’s most reliable ODI bowlers and could be particularly dangerous with the new ball at Harare Sports Club. His ability to maintain disciplined lines will be crucial against Zimbabwe’s top order.
Xavier Bartlett is another strong contender for the pace department. His ability to generate movement with the new ball makes him an ideal partner for Hazlewood. Bartlett’s performances on this tour could also strengthen his case for a regular place in Australia’s ODI setup.
Adam Zampa completes the predicted XI as Australia’s frontline spinner. His leg-spin will be particularly valuable in the middle overs, especially if the Harare surface offers grip and turn. Zampa’s experience of handling pressure in major tournaments also makes him an important part of Australia’s World Cup planning.
Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh (C), Cameron Green, Alex Carey (WK), Cooper Connolly, Matthew Renshaw, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Xavier Bartlett, Adam Zampa
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