Australia won by 59 runs against Zimbabwe in the first ODI of the Australia tour of Zimbabwe 2026, with Player of the Match Matt Renshaw’s maiden ODI century of 109 powering 294/8 before the visitors bowled Zimbabwe out of the contest at 235. The victory gives Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Renshaw’s 109 sets up Australia’s winning total

Australia’s 294/8 from 50 overs was built around Renshaw’s outstanding 109, a landmark maiden ODI hundred that gave the innings both substance and momentum. Cooper Connolly supplied a valuable 51, while Mitchell Marsh made 36 as Australia established a demanding target of 295.

Zimbabwe did find success with the ball. Newman Nyamhuri was the standout, taking five wickets, while Brad Evans claimed two and Sikandar Raza took one. But Renshaw’s century ensured Australia had enough runs on the board to put their hosts under sustained pressure in the chase.

Ellis leads the decisive defence

Zimbabwe’s pursuit had resistance at its centre through Craig Ervine’s 59 and Sikandar Raza’s 57. Brian Bennett added 25, but Australia kept breaking the innings just as Zimbabwe needed a defining partnership to force their way back into the match.

Nathan Ellis led Australia’s wicket-taking effort, with the bowling figures recording 3/18 from seven overs, while Xavier Bartlett returned 1/41 from eight and Spencer Johnson took 1/44 from nine. Connolly also claimed 1/23 in four overs and Renshaw contributed 1/32 in four, underlining Australia’s all-round control after their strong first-innings effort. Adam Zampa finished with 0/40 from 7.5 overs and Ollie Peake had figures of 0/4 from one over.

Zimbabwe reached 235, leaving Australia 59 runs clear. The result extends Australia’s early advantage in the ODI series rather than deciding it, with two matches still to play.

Key performers

  • Matt Renshaw, Australia: 109 runs and 1/32 from four overs; named Player of the Match.
  • Cooper Connolly, Australia: 51 runs and 1/23 from four overs.
  • Nathan Ellis, Australia: 3/18 from seven overs.
  • Craig Ervine, Zimbabwe: 59 runs.
  • Sikandar Raza, Zimbabwe: 57 runs and one wicket.
  • Newman Nyamhuri, Zimbabwe: five wickets.

NerdSports Stat: Renshaw’s 109 was exactly 50 runs more than Zimbabwe’s highest individual score, Ervine’s 59.

What comes next?

Australia lead the three-match ODI series 1-0 after the opening fixture. Zimbabwe have an immediate opportunity to respond when the teams meet again in the second ODI on Friday, September 18, before the series concludes on Sunday, September 20.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the match between Zimbabwe and Australia?

Australia won the match by 59 runs.

Who was the Player of the Match?

Matt Renshaw was named Player of the Match for his maiden ODI century of 109 and his wicket with the ball.

What is the series standing after this match?

Australia lead the three-match ODI series 1-0, with two matches remaining.

Who was the top scorer in this match?

Matt Renshaw top-scored with 109 runs.

When is the next match in the series?

The second ODI between Zimbabwe and Australia is on Friday, September 18.