A severely outgunned Zimbabwe had no answer for Australia’s world class bowling attack first up and now need an unlikely win to get back into the series.
Australia are set to test out a few combinations but should still field a close to full strength side.
Australia vs Zimbabwe | Second ODI | Wednesday 31 August 2022 | Riverway Stadium, Townsville | 01:40
To Win Match *betting tba
Australia | Tie 25/1 | Zimbabwe
Australia
Australia enjoyed a good outing first up even if it might have felt like a practice match as they quickly got on top and never looked like slipping.
Cameron Green took five-for in the last outing benefitting immensely from the good work done up front by Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.
Steve Smith’s white-ball form remains a big concern for Australia ahead of the 2023 World Cup, he got time in the middle in the opener but his knock was hardly convincing.
The four all-rounders in this side are all key men as shown by the first ODI where Glenn Maxwell finished brutally after Marcus Stoinis and Mitchell Marsh fell in the chase while Green didn’t bat but was key with the ball.
Zimbabwe
Despite a heavy loss Zimbabwe had a few positives to take from the experience most notably a good innings under fire from Wesley Madhevere.
Zimbabwe need to be a bit bolder with the bat in hand as they give themselves little chance by playing circumspectly.
Ryan Burl bowled well to start and might have been a bright spot in the bowling were it not for the brutal onslaught from Maxwell that spoiled his figures.
A victory might not be on the cards but Zimbabwe must look to learn and progress thanks to this experience.
Verdict: Australia
Australia should repeat their opening match win with little to no fuss against a spirited Zimababwe side.
