Zimbabwe XI who are yet to win a match in this series won the toss for the first time in the series and elected to bat first.
The move backfired as they were bowled out for a paltry 159 runs in 48.2 overs with wicketkeeper batsman, Regis Chakabva’s 45 off 104 balls the only meaningful contribution.
Left arm seamer Mitchell Starc and off spinner Nathan Lyon were impressive with the ball, both grabbing three wickets apiece as Zimbabwe XI failed to construct any meaningful partnerships.
Australia ‘A’ vice captain Calum Ferguson top scored for the visitors with 57 runs from 69 balls in a knock that included four boundaries and a six.
Together with opening batsman Aaron Finch, ensured that they team reached their target comfortably as they took on Zimbabwe XI’s opening bowlers Christopher Mpofu and Keegan Meth in the mandatory Powerplay.
The introduction of spin saw Zimbabwe XI’s fortunes briefly being revived as off spinner Prosper Utseya took a wicket and a run out in the 15th over.
He would later finish with impressive bowling figures of three wickets for 27 runs in 10 overs.
Meth and part-time bowler Brendan Taylor and Meth chipped in with a wicket apiece in the mid-overs but by then the Australians where now way over the required run rate.
Ferguson and Trent Copeland, who was unbeaten on nine runs then easily, took their side over the finishing line.
Zimbabwe will now hope that South Africa ‘A’ lose to the Aussies on Tuesday and hope that they convincingly beat their northern neighbours on Wednesday for them to book a place into Friday’s final.
Post published in: Cricket