Online Reporter
IMAGINE if this photograph was taken on October 4, at Harare Sports Sports Club, after the fall of the opposition’s final wicket and the Chevrons were celebrating winning the Men’s T20 World Cup African Qualifier?
It looks beautiful, doesn’t it?
All that the Chevrons need to qualify for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka next year is for them to win their semi-final but they know that the home fans will be demanding that they also win this regional qualifier.
It’s easy to believe that should be a formality.
After all, the Chevrons are the only full member of the ICC in this tournament and, on paper, they are the strongest of the eight teams in the regional qualifier.
But, T20 cricket can be unpredictable and one doesn’t need to go very far to see that it can produce some wild swings and, as the Chevrons realised in Namibia in the qualifiers for the 2024 World Cup, things can easily go downhill.
They were favourites when they arrived in Namibia but they lost to the hosts and Uganda and watched in humiliation as the two countries qualified for the World Cup.
Interestingly, the Chevrons had reached the Super 12 at the 2022 ICC T20 World Cup.
With entry being free for all the matches, the Chevrons will not be short of home support.
Zimbabwe open their campaign against Uganda at Harare Sports Club.
ICC Africa’s Acting Regional Development Manager, Justine Ligyalingi, said the event was more than just a qualifier.
“This tournament represents the final step on the pathway to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, and it promises to deliver high-quality cricket, passion and competitive spirit,” Ligyalingi said.
“This event is more than just a competition – it is a celebration of cricket’s growth in Africa and a unique opportunity to showcase the warmth, culture and beauty of Zimbabwe.
“We trust in Zimbabwe’s proven hosting ability and are confident this event will be a true celebration of cricket, unity and opportunity for our continent.”
Zimbabwe Cricket chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani said:
“This event is more than just a tournament − it is the final step in Africa’s pathway to the global stage.
“It reflects the progress of our game across the continent, where cricket is inspiring communities, nurturing talent and creating new opportunities for young players.
“The uniquely African way cricket is celebrated in Zimbabwe − with vibrant song, dance and colour − will once again make the Qualifier memorable for players, officials and supporters alike.” − Sports Reporter/ICC
