Zimbabwe beat Australia in Australia for the first time in an ODI match. Australia was shocked by Ryan Burl superb spell who took 5 wickets for 10 runs including key wicket of David Warner.
In a confidence boost, Zimbabwe skipper Regis Chakabva won the toss for the first time in the series and his quick bowlers exploited the seaming conditions at Riverway Stadium.
Under-pressure Australia skipper Aaron Finch has been struggling for runs and hoped for a long stint at the crease.
But his hopes were dashed when he was caught at second slip for five off the pace bowling of nemesis Richard Ngarava, who dismissed Finch for a third straight time.
Zimbabwe was on a roll when recalled Victor Nyauchi trapped in-form Steve Smith lbw for one after the star batter unsuccessfully reviewed the decision.
Australia was 31-3 when an impatient Alex Carey was caught behind, leaving Warner to rebuild the innings.
After a slow start, Warner counterattacked in trademark belligerent style but wickets continued to fall around him.
He finally found strong support from Glenn Maxwell, who clubbed 32 from just nine balls in game one, as they combined for a 50-run partnership.
Australia only could manage a score of 141 runs.
Zimbabwe in reply got off to a good start, losing their first wicket at 38 runs, by then foundation was laid. Zimbabwe was kept losing wickets, and was reeling at 77 for 5.
Then Zimbabwe Captain Regis Chakbava arrived at the crease steadied the innings at one side and scored 35 runs and took 70 balls. Players like Tony Munyonga and Ryan Burl gave him good support at the other end. Brad Evans scored winning runs for Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe will take lot of confidence from this victory into the T-20 World Cup which starts next month in Australia.
Hope Zimbabwe can play consistent cricket in times to come and beat bigger teams more often.
