OTD 2022 | Zimbabwe beat a full-strength Australia side in an away ODI

It was on this day, September 3, 2022, when Zimbabwe did the unthinkable and defeated Australia in their own backyard for the first time in an ODI. The match was played at the Riverway Stadium, Townsville, and was the third match of the three-ODI series.

Australia had already won the series by clinching the first two matches, and the third ODI was a chance for them to cleansweep Zimbabwe. Australia were playing their full-strength team, and it seemed a foregone conclusion that they would win but the Chevrons had other plans.

Zimbabwe captain Regis Chakabva won the toss and chose to field first. While David Warner held one end with 94 off 96, including 14 fours and two sixes, the Zimbabwe bowlers wreaked havoc at the other end. The next best score after Warner’s 94 was Glenn Maxwell’s 19 with three fours to his name.

Every other Australian batter got out for less than five runs, as the hosts were bowled out for 141 in 31 overs. Ryan Burl, the leg-spinner, starred with 5/10, while Brad Evans took two wickets for Zimbabwe.

However, if Zimbabwe thought the chase was going to be a cakewalk, they were in for a rude shock as Ausralia gave it their all to make Zimbabwe work for every single run.

Openers Takudzwanashe Kaitano (19) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (35) gave Zimbabwe a good start, adding 38 runs for the first wicket. But then Josh Hazlewood routed the top order with the cheap wickets of Kaitano, Wessly Madhevere (two), and Sean Williams (nought). Captain Chakabva, however, held up one end with 37 not out of 72 balls, hitting three fours.

Tony Munyonga (17) and Ryan Burl (11) took Zimbabwe near the finish line, and they finally won the game by three wickets as Zimbabwe made 142/7 in 39 overs and registered a historic first-ever ODI win over Australia away from home.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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