ZIM vs AUS again as Zampa nears 200 ODI wickets in Harare on Friday.
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What happens if?
The ZIM vs AUS 2nd ODI takes place on September 18 at Harare Sports Club, following Australia’s 59-run victory in the first match. While the visitors have a great chance to take the series, the hosts showed plenty of promise with young bowler Newman Nyamhuri taking five wickets while Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza stood tall in the middle.
So, expect a tense encounter as both countries look to secure a coveted three-match series.
Australia Possess Extra Firepower
Australia received a boost with Josh Hazlewood set to return after missing the first ODI, while Cameron Green is also back in the squad after a shoulder problem.
This gives the visitors extra firepower with both bat and ball at their disposal.
Australia’s squad: Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Matthew Renshaw, Josh Hazlewood and Adam Zampa.
- Some notable players: Matt Renshaw, who hit his first ever ODI century with a stunning 109.
- Nathan Ellis, who took 5-31 in the opening match.
- Meanwhile, Adam Zampa is just two wickets from 200 ODI wickets.
- Travis Head will be looking to give Australia a flying start with the bat.
Renshaw’s huge knock was also crucial as Australia lost the plot at various stages, eventually posting 294 for eight.
Zimbabwe Need More Control
Zimbabwe knows it will need to perform to the best of its ability and look to its young pace bowler Newman Nyamhuri, the star performer of the first match.
He took 5-62 and became only the second Zimbabwe bowler to take five wickets against Australia in an ODI.
The hosts also have a wealth of experience in the team as skipper Sikandar Raza returns to the ODI team, alongside Brendan Taylor and Graeme Cremer.
The batting line-up will also need to provide more from key players such as Innocent Kaia, as Zimbabwe simply can’t afford to lose early wickets against Australia’s potent bowling attack.
The Match is Pivotal for Both Countries
This encounter is pivotal for both countries as they prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Australia are looking to test players for the future while Zimbabwe is looking to gain experience in their home conditions.
A win would see Australia clinch the series, while Zimbabwe will look to keep the contest alive.
Harare Pitch Can Be a Batsman’s Paradise
The first ODI proved the Harare pitch can produce good scoring opportunities for the batters. Australia made 294 while Zimbabwe reached 235 before being bowled out.
The pitch can also slow up as the match progresses, providing extra turn for the spinners.
Adam Zampa can be one of the key men to look out for as he has 198 ODI wickets and just needs two more to be the seventh Australian bowler to reach 200 in men’s ODIs.
The match kicks off at 9:30 am local time in Harare on September 18 with the series being played at Harare Sports Club.
Final Thoughts
Australia enters the second ODI with a 1-0 lead after a huge opening match, while Zimbabwe possesses enough depth and youth to make the next match a real contest.
With Renshaw in form, Ellis dangerous and Zampa close to a special personal milestone, there are plenty of reasons to watch this exciting encounter between the two rivals.
Who would you pick in your ZIM vs AUS playing XI?
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