Renshaw century, Ellis five-for seal Australia’s 59-run win in Harare

Harare, 15 September 2026: Matt Renshaw’s century and a five-wicket haul from Nathan Ellis carried Australia to a 59-run victory over Zimbabwe in the opening ODI at Harare Sports Club on Tuesday.

Australia, who elected to bat first, recovered from several early setbacks to reach 294 for eight from their 50 overs. Renshaw anchored the innings with 109 from 94 balls, striking seven fours and three sixes, while Cooper Connolly contributed 51 from 46 deliveries.

Mitchell Marsh provided early momentum with 36 off 28 balls, but Zimbabwe continued to make breakthroughs and had Australia 107 for four in the 18th over. Renshaw then steadied the innings, sharing useful partnerships through the middle and latter stages to push the visitors towards 300.

Newman Nyamhuri led Zimbabwe’s bowling effort with five for 62, while Brad Evans claimed two wickets.

Zimbabwe’s chase was in trouble early, slipping to 62 for four before Craig Ervine and captain Sikandar Raza mounted a recovery.

The pair added 98 for the fifth wicket and briefly gave the hosts a route back into the contest. Ervine made 59 from 60 balls before Ellis removed him, while Raza scored 57 from 76.

Once the partnership was broken, Australia steadily closed out the match. Ellis proved decisive, finishing with five for 31 from 9.1 overs as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 235 in 45.1 overs.

Renshaw also contributed with the ball, dismissing Brendan Taylor and was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance.

Australia’s victory gave them a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.

Scores in brief:

Australia 294-8 (50 overs): Matt Renshaw 109, Cooper Connolly 51, Mitchell Marsh 36; Newman Nyamhuri 5-62, Brad Evans 2-51

Zimbabwe 235 (45.1 overs): Craig Ervine 59, Sikandar Raza 57; Nathan Ellis 5-31

Result: Australia won by 59 runs