Australia national cricket team will travel to face Zimbabwe national cricket team in a three-match One Day International (ODI) series this September, as part of its build-up to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.
All matches are scheduled to take place at the Harare Sports Club, offering Australia a valuable opportunity to adapt to local conditions ahead of a tournament that Zimbabwe will co-host alongside South Africa and Namibia.
A growing challenge for Australia
Despite entering the cycle as reigning ODI world champions following their 2023 triumph, Australia’s recent record against Zimbabwe has added context to the tour.
Zimbabwe has emerged as a difficult opponent in limited-overs formats, including a notable victory over Australia during the 2026 T20 World Cup that contributed to Australia’s early exit. Wins over teams such as Sri Lanka and Ireland during that tournament further reinforced Zimbabwe’s upward trajectory.
The rivalry has also produced surprises in the 50-over format. Zimbabwe secured a win over Australia in 2022, while a previous meeting on home soil in 2014 ended in another upset result.
Schedule: Qantas Tour of Zimbabwe
- First ODI: 15 September
- Second ODI: 18 September
- Third ODI: 20 September
(All matches at Harare Sports Club)
Focus on World Cup consistency
Australia selector George Bailey emphasized that the tour is part of a broader effort to address inconsistencies between bilateral success and major tournament performances.
Australia has maintained strong results in bilateral series but has struggled to replicate that form in recent global events, particularly in the T20 format.
Part of a packed calendar
The Zimbabwe tour forms part of a busy international schedule. Following the ODIs in Harare, Australia is set to continue its preparation phase with a tour of South Africa, including additional ODIs and a Test series.
With the 2027 World Cup approaching, tours like this are expected to play a key role in refining strategy, squad balance, and adaptability to varied playing conditions.