Australia vs Zimbabwe – 3rd One-Day International Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Australia vs Zimbabwe taking place? Saturday, August 3rd, 2022 – 00:40 (UK)
Where is Australia vs Zimbabwe taking place? Riverway Stadium, Townsville
What is the expected weather for Australia vs Zimbabwe? 24-27c dry, with sunny intervals and a moderate breeze
What channel is Australia vs Zimbabwe on? The match will be televised live on BT Sport in the UK
Where can I stream Australia vs Zimbabwe? BT Sport subscribers will be able to stream the match live via the BT Sport website and app.
LAST MEETING
Australia beat Zimbabwe by eight wickets.
THE LOWDOWN
AUSTRALIA
- Australia have already wrapped up this three-match ODI series following a dominating eight-wicket victory in the second match which saw them blow the Zimbabwe batting order away, dismissing them for just 96 after winning the toss and bowling first.
- Left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc roared back with a vengeance after taking just one wicket in the first ODI, blowing the Zimbabwean top order away with three early wickets, whilst Steve Smith continued his good form with the bat, scoring 47 not out which means he has now gained 95 runs in the series so far without being dismissed.
ZIMBABWE
- Whilst Zimbabwe battled well with the bat in the opening game, last time out their batters were utterly dominated by a superb Australian bowling attack, with a top score of 29 from Sean Williams telling the story.
- Richard Ngarava bowled excellently and picked up the wickets of both Aussie openers, but ultimately him and his teammates were not given nearly enough runs to work with and unless Australia bat first in the third ODI, then this simply has to change.
THE PREDICTION
Although the series might be done and dusted as a competition, Zimbabwe will be looking to salvage some pride following the battering they took on Wednesday. Having said that, it’s no disgrace for them to lose so heavily, as this Australia team are one of the very best 50-over teams in the world and facing them on their own patch is a daunting prospect for any nation. Provided the hosts leave any complacency firmly in the dressing room and continue to treat their opponents with the respect they deserve, then Australia will surely prove way too strong for Zimbabwe once again, wrapping up a 3-0 sweep.
