Ellis inspires thrilling last ball win as Australia pip Zimbabwe: 3rd ODI (Harare)

Nathan Ellis was the hero as Australia completed a 3–0 ODI series sweep over Zimbabwe in dramatic fashion, snatching a heart-stopping one-wicket victory in the final match at Harare.

Opting to bat first, Zimbabwe built a competitive total of 271/8, anchored by a superb, unbeaten 81 from star all-rounder Sikandar Raza. Top-order half-centuries from Craig Ervine (59) and Innocent Kaia (55) laid a solid foundation, giving the hosts a real chance to avoid a series whitewash.

Australia’s chase looked in grave danger after a flurry of middle-order wickets, but Josh Inglis spearheaded a stunning fightback. Inglis struck a magnificent 105—his second ODI century—to keep Australia’s hopes alive.

When he departed, the pressure shifted to the final pair. Australia still required 27 runs when No. 11 Spencer Johnson joined Nathan Ellis at the crease.

Displaying remarkable composure under extreme pressure, Ellis expertly managed the strike and anchored the tail with a ice-cool unbeaten 36. With just two balls to spare in the 50th over, Ellis hit the winning runs to take Australia to 272/9, completing a dramatic late-order escape and sealing the series sweep.

Australia 272 for 9 (Inglis 103, Evans 4-47) beat Zimbabwe 271 for 8 (Raza 81*, Ervine 59, Kaia 55 ret hurt, Ellis 3-50) by one wicket.

Sept 2026.