Australia completed a 3-0 series sweep against Zimbabwe with edging out the hosts by one wicket in a nail-biting finish in Harare. In their first tour of the country in 12 years the Aussies dashed the hopes of a festive home crowd through a heroic 27-run tenth-wicket partnership between Nathan Ellis and Spencer Johnson.
Batting first the Zimbabwe posted a competitive total, driven by half-centuries from Sikandar Raza (81*) and Craig Ervine (59). Despite a momentum-halting injury to Innocent Kaia (55) and a late batting collapse and the hosts set a challenging target. Ellis starred with the ball for Australia by claiming 3 for 50.
In response Australia’s chase was anchored by Josh Inglis, who smashed a brilliant century. However, Brad Evans’ impressive bowling (four wickets) triggered a dramatic middle-order collapse. When Inglis was dismissed, Australia still needed 45 runs with shifting the pressure heavily back onto the visitors.
Ultimately the match slipped from Zimbabwe's grasp due to crucial fielding errors including two costly dropped catches by Wessly Madhevere. The climax came in the final over. With nine runs needed off six balls Sikandar Raza surprisingly handed the ball to Madhevere instead of experienced bowler Graeme Cremer. Ellis smashed the first delivery for a six with securing the thrilling victory with a composed of unbeaten 36.
Despite strong individual performances by Raza, Ervine and Evans the Zimbabwe was left ruing missed tactical opportunities and dropped catches also allowing Australia to escape with a clean sweep.
