Australia Tour of Zimbabwe 2026: Match Schedule, Dates, Venues, Broadcast, Channels, Kickoff Times, Tickets, Squads, Prediction and Complete Guide

The Australia tour of Zimbabwe 2026 is set to be one of the most interesting short ODI assignments of the international cricket calendar. Australia will travel to Zimbabwe for a three-match One-Day International series in September 2026, with all three matches scheduled at the Harare Sports Club in Harare.

The series will begin on September 15, 2026, followed by the second ODI on September 18 and the third ODI on September 20. All three matches are scheduled to start at 9:30 AM local time in Zimbabwe, making this a daytime ODI series. For Australian viewers, the scheduled start is 5:30 PM AEST.

The tour carries considerably more importance than a normal three-match bilateral series. Australia and Zimbabwe are both looking toward the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, which will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Australia is therefore using its African tour to examine its ODI combinations and expose emerging players to conditions similar to those expected during the World Cup.

Australia’s squad also reflects this strategy. Mitchell Marsh will captain the side in Zimbabwe, while experienced players including Travis Head, Josh Hazlewood, Alex Carey, Cameron Green and Adam Zampa are part of the squad. Young players such as Joel Davies, Oliver Peake and Cooper Connolly have also been included.

Zimbabwe, meanwhile, will have the major advantage of playing at home. The series will also be Australia’s first ODI visit to Zimbabwe in more than a decade, adding another layer of interest to the contest.

Australia Tour of Zimbabwe 2026: Quick Overview

Category	Details
Tour	Australia Tour of Zimbabwe 2026
Format	ODI
Number of Matches	3
Teams	Zimbabwe and Australia
Series Start	September 15, 2026
Series End	September 20, 2026
1st ODI	September 15
2nd ODI	September 18
3rd ODI	September 20
Venue	Harare Sports Club, Harare
Match Start	9:30 AM Zimbabwe time
Australian Start	5:30 PM AEST
Indian Start	Approximately 1:00 PM IST
Australian Broadcast	Fox Cricket, Kayo
Australia Captain in Zimbabwe	Mitchell Marsh
Main Objective	2027 World Cup preparation
Predicted Winner	Australia

Australia vs Zimbabwe 2026 ODI Schedule

The Australia-Zimbabwe ODI series contains three matches. Unlike some international tours where games are spread across multiple cities, all three matches will be played at Harare Sports Club.

This gives both teams an opportunity to become familiar with the pitch and conditions during the series.

1st ODI

Date: Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
Local Start Time: 9:30 AM
Australian Start Time: 5:30 PM AEST

The first ODI will officially begin the series. Australia will enter the opening match as the stronger team on paper, but Zimbabwe will have the benefit of home conditions.

The opening game will also provide the first indication of Australia’s preferred batting order and bowling combination.

2nd ODI

Date: Friday, September 18, 2026
Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
Local Start Time: 9:30 AM
Australian Start Time: 5:30 PM AEST

The second match will take place three days after the opening ODI.

The result of the first match could have a significant effect on the approach of both teams. If Australia wins the opener, the visitors could use the second match to test additional combinations. If Zimbabwe wins or produces a close contest, the second ODI could become even more important.

3rd ODI

Date: Sunday, September 20, 2026
Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
Local Start Time: 9:30 AM
Australian Start Time: 5:30 PM AEST

The third and final ODI will decide the series if the first two matches produce a split result.

The final game could also become an opportunity for Australia to give additional exposure to its younger players, depending on the series situation.

The three-match schedule is officially listed for September 15, 18 and 20 at Harare Sports Club.

Australia vs Zimbabwe 2026 Match Dates and Times

For readers searching specifically for the Australia vs Zimbabwe match dates, the complete schedule is as follows:

Match	Date	Venue	Zimbabwe Time	Australia Time
1st ODI	September 15, 2026	Harare Sports Club	9:30 AM	5:30 PM AEST
2nd ODI	September 18, 2026	Harare Sports Club	9:30 AM	5:30 PM AEST
3rd ODI	September 20, 2026	Harare Sports Club	9:30 AM	5:30 PM AEST

The official schedule confirms the 9:30 AM local start for all three Zimbabwe fixtures and the 5:30 PM AEST start for Australian viewers.

What Time Does Australia vs Zimbabwe 2026 Start?

Cricket matches are normally described by their start time rather than “kickoff time”, but fans frequently use both terms when searching online.

All three ODIs are scheduled to begin at:

Zimbabwe: 9:30 AM local time
Australia: 5:30 PM AEST
India: around 1:00 PM IST
UTC: 7:30 AM

The early start in Harare means the matches will be played as daytime ODIs rather than day-night fixtures.

The Australian broadcaster schedule confirms a 5:30 PM AEST start, corresponding to 9:30 AM local time in Harare.

Venue: Harare Sports Club

All three Australia vs Zimbabwe matches will take place at the Harare Sports Club in Harare.

The venue is one of Zimbabwe’s most important cricket grounds and has hosted international cricket for many years.

For Zimbabwe, playing the entire series at the same venue provides an obvious advantage. The home players are familiar with the surface, outfield and local conditions.

Australia, on the other hand, will need to adapt quickly.

The three-match arrangement also means that Australia will not have to repeatedly adjust to completely different pitches. Once the visitors understand how the Harare surface behaves, they can use that information in the second and third matches.

Why Harare Sports Club Could Be Important

Pitch conditions are likely to play an important role throughout the series.

A traditional Harare surface can offer different challenges to batters and bowlers depending on preparation and weather conditions. The early start could also mean that the new ball behaves differently during the first part of the innings compared with the later stages.

For Australia, the key will be adjusting quickly rather than relying entirely on experience from home conditions.

Zimbabwe should have a better understanding of how to use its bowlers on the surface.

Spin could become especially important during the middle overs. If the pitch becomes slower, Zimbabwe may look to use its spinners and change-of-pace bowlers to restrict Australia’s scoring.

Australia, however, has Adam Zampa as a specialist spin option and several bowling alternatives around him.

Australia Tour of Zimbabwe 2026 Broadcast Details

Broadcast information will be one of the biggest concerns for international fans.

Australia Broadcast

Australian fans will be able to watch the Zimbabwe leg of the tour through:

Fox Cricket
Kayo

Cricket Australia has confirmed that the Zimbabwe and South Africa ODI tour will be broadcast exclusively in Australia on these platforms.

The three Zimbabwe matches are scheduled for 5:30 PM AEST.

This is a convenient timing for many Australian viewers because the matches will begin in the evening.

India Live Streaming

Indian viewers should check the latest local streaming rights and platform listings immediately before the series.

The international schedule places the matches at approximately 1:00 PM IST, making all three games relatively convenient for Indian cricket fans.

Because broadcast and streaming rights can change, viewers should verify the current platform availability before match day rather than relying on older listings.

International Broadcast

Broadcast arrangements outside Australia can vary by country.

Fans in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Middle East, Africa and other regions should check their local cricket broadcaster or streaming provider closer to the match.

The safest approach is to confirm the broadcaster for the specific country before subscribing to any service.

Australia Tour of Zimbabwe 2026 Ticket Details

The three ODIs are scheduled to be played at Harare Sports Club, giving local fans an opportunity to watch Australia in Zimbabwe for the first time in an ODI series in more than a decade.

However, fans should distinguish between the confirmed match schedule and detailed ticketing information.

The dates and venue have been confirmed, but ticket prices, seating categories and sales arrangements can be announced separately.

Fans should verify the following before buying tickets:

Official ticket-sale date
Ticket price
Seating category
Stadium entry rules
Gate opening time
Digital or physical ticket requirements
Identification requirements
Child-ticket policy
Refund policy
Official ticket seller

Fans should avoid purchasing tickets from unknown social-media accounts or unofficial resellers.

If ticket packages become available, supporters attending all three matches could potentially have an opportunity to purchase a series package, but this should only be considered confirmed once officially announced.

Australia ODI Squad for Zimbabwe 2026

Australia has named a 17-player ODI squad for its African tour.

The squad includes:

Mitchell Marsh
Pat Cummins
Xavier Bartlett
Alex Carey
Cooper Connolly
Joel Davies
Nathan Ellis
Cameron Green
Josh Hazlewood
Travis Head
Josh Inglis
Spencer Johnson
Oliver Peake
Matthew Renshaw
Billy Stanlake
Mitchell Starc
Adam Zampa

However, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc are designated for the South Africa leg, meaning they are not part of Australia’s Zimbabwe playing group.

Mitchell Marsh is expected to captain Australia in Zimbabwe.

Mitchell Marsh to Lead Australia

One of the most important aspects of the Zimbabwe tour is Mitchell Marsh’s leadership role.

Marsh has extensive experience in international cricket and provides Australia with an all-round option.

His ability to contribute with both bat and ball gives the team additional flexibility.

As captain, he will also have to manage an ODI squad that contains a mixture of established players and younger prospects.

The tour therefore gives Marsh an opportunity to establish his leadership style while Australia continues to develop its post-2023 World Cup ODI team.

Marnus Labuschagne Omitted from Australia ODI Squad

One of the biggest stories surrounding Australia’s squad announcement is the omission of Marnus Labuschagne.

Labuschagne has been an important member of Australia’s ODI setup, but his recent form has not met the selectors’ expectations.

Reuters reported that he had averaged 21.87 in ODIs since the beginning of 2024, contributing to his omission from the 17-man squad.

The decision is particularly significant because Australia is now focusing heavily on the 2027 World Cup.

Chief selector George Bailey has emphasized the importance of giving other players opportunities to develop their roles.

The Zimbabwe tour therefore represents a major opportunity for Australia’s emerging middle-order players.

Young Australian Players to Watch

The Zimbabwe series could be particularly important for Australia’s next generation.

Joel Davies

Joel Davies has received a maiden ODI call-up.

His selection is a clear sign that Australia wants to expand its options before the 2027 World Cup.

A successful series could significantly strengthen his position in the long-term ODI setup.

Oliver Peake

Oliver Peake is another young player receiving international exposure.

Peake impressed during the 2026 Under-19 World Cup, including a century against England, and has now moved closer to senior international cricket.

The Zimbabwe series will provide a very different challenge from age-group cricket.

Cooper Connolly

Cooper Connolly is another player who could benefit enormously from the tour.

His inclusion provides Australia with another flexible option as selectors assess the team’s future balance.

Australia’s Key Players

Travis Head

Travis Head remains one of Australia’s most dangerous limited-overs batters.

His aggressive approach can put opposition bowlers under pressure immediately.

If Head survives the first few overs, Australia could potentially build a very high scoring rate.

Zimbabwe will therefore need a clear plan for him from the beginning of the innings.

Cameron Green

Cameron Green provides Australia with both batting and bowling value.

His height, technique and all-round ability make him an important part of Australia’s future planning.

The Zimbabwe conditions could also provide valuable experience for him ahead of the World Cup.

Josh Hazlewood

Josh Hazlewood brings considerable experience to Australia’s bowling attack.

His accuracy and ability to bowl disciplined spells make him a potential match-winner even when conditions do not offer dramatic movement.

Zimbabwe’s top order will have to find ways of preventing Hazlewood from building sustained pressure.

Adam Zampa

Adam Zampa could be one of the most important players in the series.

As Australia’s specialist spinner in the squad, he may have a particularly important role if the Harare pitch becomes slower.

His ability to take wickets during the middle overs could determine whether Zimbabwe can build large totals.

Zimbabwe’s Major Advantage: Home Conditions

Zimbabwe’s biggest advantage is obvious: home conditions.

The hosts know Harare Sports Club better than Australia.

They also understand the local weather, pitch behavior and typical match conditions.

This becomes even more significant because Australia has not played an ODI series in Zimbabwe for more than a decade.

The ICC has highlighted that Australia’s last ODI visit to Zimbabwe came during the 2014 triangular series involving South Africa.

That gap means Australia’s current players have relatively limited recent ODI experience in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe can use that unfamiliarity to its advantage.

Australia vs Zimbabwe Head-to-Head

Australia has traditionally been the stronger ODI side, with significantly greater depth and experience.

However, the current series should not be viewed purely through historical records.

Zimbabwe has demonstrated that it can challenge major cricketing nations, particularly in home conditions.

The most recent chapter in the rivalry also provides an interesting reminder. Zimbabwe defeated Australia by 23 runs at the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, demonstrating that the hosts are capable of producing major upsets against the Australians.

That result does not automatically translate to ODI cricket, but it will give Zimbabwe additional confidence.

Why the 2026 Series Is Important for the 2027 World Cup

The 2027 ODI World Cup will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Therefore, Australia’s September 2026 African tour is extremely valuable preparation.

Australia will play:

Three ODIs against Zimbabwe
Three ODIs against South Africa

The six matches give Australia an opportunity to assess its ODI team in conditions that could resemble those encountered at the World Cup.

The ICC has specifically described Australia’s upcoming African ODIs as part of its preparations for the 2027 World Cup.

Australia’s Main Objectives

Australia will likely use the Zimbabwe series to answer several important questions.

Who should open?

With recent changes to Australia’s batting structure, the opening combination needs to be settled.

Travis Head remains an obvious candidate, while Josh Inglis can also bat in the top order.

Who replaces the established middle-order options?

The omission of Labuschagne creates an opportunity for other batters.

Can younger players handle international pressure?

Joel Davies, Oliver Peake and Cooper Connolly will have opportunities to demonstrate their readiness.

How should Australia balance spin and pace?

Adam Zampa is the specialist spinner, while Australia’s pace resources offer several combinations.

Which players should be part of the 2027 World Cup plans?

Every ODI in this period becomes important because there are limited opportunities remaining before the World Cup.

Zimbabwe’s Main Objectives

For Zimbabwe, the series has a similar importance.

The hosts will want to:

Improve ODI consistency.
Test their best World Cup combination.
Challenge Australia’s batting depth.
Develop their young players.
Gain experience against elite fast bowlers.
Build confidence before 2027.
Give home supporters high-quality international cricket.

Zimbabwe Cricket has described the series as an important part of its development and preparation for the 2027 World Cup.

Australia vs Zimbabwe 2026 Prediction

Australia will enter the series as the favorite.

The visitors have a deeper batting lineup, greater experience and more international match-winning options.

However, Zimbabwe has several factors working in its favor.

Australia’s advantages

Stronger batting depth
Greater international experience
High-quality fast bowling
Experienced wicketkeepers
Strong fielding standards
Multiple all-round options
Greater depth across the squad

Zimbabwe’s advantages

Home conditions
Knowledge of Harare Sports Club
Familiarity with local weather
Potentially helpful spin conditions
Strong motivation
No expectation of an easy series
Recent confidence from beating Australia in T20 cricket

1st ODI Prediction

Australia should start as the favorite.

The visitors are likely to have more batting depth and should be able to handle pressure better.

Zimbabwe’s best chance will be to take early wickets.

If the hosts remove Head and Marsh cheaply, the match could become much closer.

Prediction: Australia to win.

2nd ODI Prediction

The second ODI could be more competitive.

By this stage both teams will have information about the pitch and the effectiveness of individual players.

If Zimbabwe performs strongly in the first match, its confidence could increase significantly.

Nevertheless, Australia should remain the favorite.

Prediction: Australia to win, with Zimbabwe capable of making it a competitive contest.

3rd ODI Prediction

The final ODI could be particularly interesting if the series is 1-1.

Australia will probably use its strongest combination if the series needs to be decided.

If Australia has already secured the series, selectors may give additional opportunities to younger players.

Prediction: Australia to win the series finale.

Overall Series Prediction

Australia 2-1 Zimbabwe

While a 3-0 Australian victory is certainly possible, a 2-1 series result may be the more balanced prediction.

Zimbabwe has the home advantage and enough quality to win one match.

Australia’s overall depth, however, makes it difficult to predict the hosts winning the series.

Predicted series winner: Australia

Predicted series score: Australia 2-1 Zimbabwe

Key Battles to Watch

Travis Head vs Zimbabwe’s New-Ball Bowlers

This could be the most important batting contest.

Head’s attacking style makes him extremely dangerous, but early wickets could change the entire match.

Adam Zampa vs Zimbabwe’s Middle Order

Zampa’s role during the middle overs could determine whether Zimbabwe can accelerate toward the end.

If Zimbabwe’s batters successfully neutralize him, Australia’s bowling attack could come under pressure.

Zimbabwe’s Top Order vs Australia’s Pace Attack

Zimbabwe cannot afford repeated early collapses.

Australia’s fast bowlers will look to create pressure before the hosts can establish partnerships.

Mitchell Marsh vs Zimbabwe’s All-Rounders

Marsh can influence the match in multiple departments.

His captaincy decisions could also be important if the pitch proves difficult for batting.

Possible Australia Playing XI

The final playing XI will be confirmed only before each match.

A possible combination could look like:

Travis Head
Josh Inglis
Cameron Green
Mitchell Marsh
Alex Carey
Cooper Connolly
Matthew Renshaw
Nathan Ellis
Josh Hazlewood
Spencer Johnson
Adam Zampa

This is a projected XI, not an officially confirmed playing XI.

The selectors could alter the combination depending on pitch conditions and player workload.

Fantasy Cricket Players to Watch

Fantasy cricket fans should monitor the confirmed playing XIs before selecting their teams.

Potential high-value options include:

Travis Head

An explosive top-order batter capable of producing a match-winning score.

Mitchell Marsh

An all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.

Adam Zampa

Potentially valuable if the Harare surface assists spin.

Josh Hazlewood

A reliable wicket-taking option.

Alex Carey

A wicketkeeper-batter who can contribute in two departments.

Zimbabwe’s top-order batters could also provide useful fantasy options if the hosts have a strong batting performance.

Weather and Playing Conditions

Weather can play an important role in September cricket in Zimbabwe.

The morning start means the first innings will begin relatively early.

The teams will have to deal with changing conditions throughout the day.

Important factors could include:

Early movement for seamers
Surface pace
Ball aging
Spin during middle overs
Outfield speed
Temperature
Dew, if conditions permit

The toss could therefore have more significance than usual.

Will the Toss Matter?

The toss could influence the strategy.

If the pitch is best for batting early, the captain winning the toss may prefer to bat first.

If the surface offers early assistance to seamers, bowling first could become attractive.

The final decision will depend heavily on the pitch inspection and weather conditions on match morning.

Australia Tour of Zimbabwe 2026: Complete Schedule

First ODI

Date: September 15, 2026
Venue: Harare Sports Club
Time: 9:30 AM Zimbabwe / 5:30 PM AEST

Second ODI

Date: September 18, 2026
Venue: Harare Sports Club
Time: 9:30 AM Zimbabwe / 5:30 PM AEST

Third ODI

Date: September 20, 2026
Venue: Harare Sports Club
Time: 9:30 AM Zimbabwe / 5:30 PM AEST

All three fixtures are officially scheduled at Harare Sports Club. (Cricket Australia)

What Comes After the Zimbabwe Tour?

Australia’s African ODI assignment continues after Zimbabwe.

The team is scheduled to play three ODIs against South Africa beginning on September 24.

The wider ODI schedule includes:

September 24 – Durban
September 27 – Johannesburg
September 30 – Potchefstroom

These six matches against Zimbabwe and South Africa form an important part of Australia’s preparation for the 2027 World Cup.

The South Africa series will also feature Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, who are designated for that leg rather than the Zimbabwe matches.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Australia vs Zimbabwe 1st ODI in 2026?

The first ODI will be played on September 15, 2026, at Harare Sports Club.

When is the second Australia vs Zimbabwe ODI?

The second ODI is scheduled for September 18, 2026.

When is the third Australia vs Zimbabwe ODI?

The third ODI will be played on September 20, 2026.

Where will Australia vs Zimbabwe 2026 matches be played?

All three matches will be played at Harare Sports Club in Harare, Zimbabwe.

What time does Australia vs Zimbabwe start?

All three matches are scheduled to start at 9:30 AM local time in Zimbabwe and 5:30 PM AEST in Australia.

Who will captain Australia in Zimbabwe?

Mitchell Marsh will captain Australia’s ODI side in Zimbabwe.

Is Pat Cummins playing against Zimbabwe?

Pat Cummins is included in Australia’s wider ODI squad but is designated for the South Africa leg, not the Zimbabwe matches.

Is Mitchell Starc playing in Zimbabwe?

Mitchell Starc is also designated for the South Africa leg of the tour rather than the Zimbabwe series.

Why is Marnus Labuschagne not in the squad?

Labuschagne was omitted from the ODI squad as Australia reshapes its team ahead of the 2027 World Cup. His recent ODI form was a major factor in the selection decision.

How many matches are in the Australia tour of Zimbabwe?

There are three ODIs.

Who is likely to win the series?

Australia is the favorite because of its overall squad strength and experience, but Zimbabwe’s home advantage makes a 2-1 Australian victory a reasonable prediction.

Final Verdict

The Australia Tour of Zimbabwe 2026 is much more than a three-match ODI series.

For Australia, it is an opportunity to develop the squad that could eventually defend its World Cup title in 2027. The inclusion of emerging players alongside established stars shows that selectors are already thinking about the next generation.

For Zimbabwe, the series represents an opportunity to test its ODI team against one of the world’s strongest cricket nations in home conditions.

The three matches will all be played at Harare Sports Club, beginning on September 15, followed by matches on September 18 and September 20. Each game is scheduled for a 9:30 AM local start, while Australian viewers can watch from 5:30 PM AEST.

Australia has the stronger squad on paper, but Zimbabwe should not be underestimated. The hosts know their conditions, have the support of the home crowd and will be highly motivated with the 2027 World Cup approaching.

Our prediction is Australia to win the series 2-1, although a 3-0 result remains a realistic possibility if Australia’s experienced players dominate the opening two matches.

The series should therefore provide an intriguing combination of established Australian stars, emerging talent, home-grown Zimbabwean players and valuable World Cup preparation.