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Zimbabwe will begin a challenging three-match ODI series against Australia when the two teams meet in the first game at Harare Sports Club on September 15. The series will be an important opportunity for the hosts to test themselves against one of the strongest ODI teams in the world as preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup continue.
Sikandar Raza will captain Zimbabwe in the absence of regular skipper Richard Ngarava, who continues to recover from a lower-back injury. The hosts have also recalled experienced campaigners Brendan Taylor and Graeme Cremer, while Blessing Muzarabani returns to lead the pace attack.
Zimbabwe’s 15-member squad includes several familiar names, but the series opener could see the hosts combine experience with some of their younger players.
Here is the predicted playing XI of Zimbabwe for 1st ODI against Australia:
Ben Curran is likely to open the innings for Zimbabwe. The left-handed batter has been part of the national setup and could provide an attacking option at the top. Against Australia’s formidable new-ball attack, Curran’s ability to negotiate the early movement will be crucial.
Brian Bennett could partner Curran at the top of the order. The talented all-rounder has shown plenty of promise with both bat and ball and could give Zimbabwe an aggressive presence during the Powerplay. His ability to contribute with off-spin also provides the team with additional flexibility.
Craig Ervine brings considerable experience to Zimbabwe’s batting lineup. The veteran left-hander can play the role of an anchor and will be expected to stabilise the innings if the hosts lose an early wicket. His experience against Australia’s bowlers could prove valuable.
Sikandar Raza will lead Zimbabwe and is arguably their most important player. The experienced all-rounder can influence the game in multiple departments and is capable of taking responsibility with the bat when required.
Raza’s off-spin could also become particularly important at Harare, where he may be used to control the middle overs. With Zimbabwe missing Ngarava, his leadership will be even more significant.
Wessly Madhevere is expected to occupy a middle-order position. The right-hander has been a regular part of Zimbabwe’s white-ball setup and can contribute with both bat and ball. His ability to rotate the strike will be important against Australia’s disciplined bowling attack.
Veteran Brendan Taylor could make his return to ODI cricket after being recalled to the squad. The 40-year-old’s experience makes him a valuable addition, particularly with wicketkeeper-batter Clive Madande absent. Taylor is expected to assist with wicketkeeping duties during the series.
His experience at the international level could also provide Zimbabwe with much-needed stability in the middle order.
Ryan Burl is likely to provide Zimbabwe with another valuable all-round option. The left-handed batter can attack spinners and accelerate towards the end of an innings, while his leg-spin gives Raza another bowling option.
Brad Evans could feature as Zimbabwe’s second seam-bowling all-rounder. He offers pace, variations and useful lower-order batting. Against Australia’s deep batting lineup, Evans’ ability to contribute with the ball could be particularly important.
Blessing Muzarabani is expected to spearhead Zimbabwe’s pace attack. His height and ability to generate bounce make him a difficult proposition for batters, while his experience gives Zimbabwe a genuine wicket-taking threat.
Muzarabani recently produced an outstanding spell of 4/17 against Australia in the 2026 T20 World Cup, underlining his ability to trouble the Australians.
Graeme Cremer could make his return to ODI cricket after a lengthy absence. The experienced leg-spinner has been recalled to the squad and brings considerable knowledge of bowling in Zimbabwean conditions.
His variations could make him an important weapon against Australia’s middle order.
Newman Nyamhuri could complete Zimbabwe’s XI as the second specialist pace option. The left-arm seamer can provide variety alongside Muzarabani and Evans, particularly with the new ball.
Ben Curran, Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Sikandar Raza (C), Wessly Madhevere, Brendan Taylor (WK), Ryan Burl, Brad Evans, Blessing Muzarabani, Graeme Cremer, Newman Nyamhuri
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