Harare, April 2 (IANS) Zimbabwe Cricket has announced that they will host Australia for a three-match ODI series in September, marking Australia’s first ODI visit to the country in more than a decade.

The last time the two sides met on Zimbabwean soil in this format was during a triangular series in August/September 2014, which also featured South Africa.

The series will commence on September 15, with the second and third matches scheduled to be played on September 18 and 20. All fixtures will be played at Harare Sports Club. The series forms a key part of Zimbabwe’s build-up to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, which Zimbabwe will co-host alongside South Africa and Namibia.

ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni said the tour comes at an important stage for the team. “We are delighted to welcome Australia back to Zimbabwe for what promises to be a highly competitive ODI series,” he said.

“Fixtures of this calibre are vital for our growth as a team. With the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 on the horizon, this tour provides invaluable preparation as we build towards hosting the tournament alongside South Africa and Namibia.

“It is also a fantastic opportunity for our fans to experience top-level international cricket at home, and we look forward to strong support at Harare Sports Club.”

Zimbabwe has consistently proven to be a thorn in the side for Australian outfits in recent times. Most recently, Australia’s T20 outfit was left chastened by a 23-run defeat to Zimbabwe at this year’s T20 World Cup in February enroute to an embarrassing group stage exit.

And Australia’s 50-over side lost in their last start against Zimbabwe, beaten by three wickets in Townsville in September 2022, albeit in the final game of a series the home side won 2-1.

For Zimbabwe, Australia’s visit will follow three T20s in the country against India, while they will also be heading to India in Janaury 2027 for three ODIs.

–IANS

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