Australia Bat First Against Zimbabwe as Green Misses Out, Hazlewood Rested

Australia captain Mitch Marsh won the toss and elected to bat first against Zimbabwe at Harare Sports Club under clear blue skies. The decision comes despite a pitch offering considerably more grass than usual, with Zimbabwe stand-in captain Sikandar Raza admitting he would have preferred to bowl first.

Marsh, who spent part of his childhood in Zimbabwe, returns to the country with fond memories and will open the innings alongside Travis Head. The pair are reunited at the top of the order after missing Australia's previous two series, with Cooper Connolly moving into the No. 3 position.

Australia have made two notable changes to their playing XI. Allrounder Cameron Green has been ruled out because of shoulder soreness, while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been rested as Australia manage his workload during a busy season.

ODI captain Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc remain at home after being rested for the Zimbabwe leg of the tour. Nathan Ellis will spearhead Australia's attack, supported by Xavier Bartlett and Spencer Johnson. Johnson returns to the ODI side for the first time since the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Zimbabwe, meanwhile, have opted for three specialist seamers, with Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri and Brad Evans included in the XI. Evans, despite his ability to contribute with the bat and finish innings, has been listed at No. 8.

Raza is leading Zimbabwe in the absence of injured captain Richard Ngarava. The home side will hope the grass on the surface and possible moisture in the air provide assistance to their seamers early in Australia's innings.

The Zimbabwe XI also features a notable blend of experience. Raza, Brendan Taylor and Craig Ervine are all 40 years old, while veteran spinner Graeme Cremer, who turns 40 next week, has been named among the substitutes.

Teams

Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Innocent Kaia, Brendan Taylor, Craig Ervine, Sikandar Raza (capt), Wessly Madhevere, Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani.

Australia: Mitch Marsh (capt), Travis Head, Cooper Connolly, Josh Inglis (wk), Alex Carey, Matt Renshaw, Oliver Peake, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson.