Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube, Zimpapers Sports Hub
IN a bold new step, under its Cricket Ekhaya/Cricket Kumunzi initiative, Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) is taking the gentleman’s game where it’s never been before, right into the heart of rural Matabeleland North Province.
On 30 July, Binga High School will host a pioneering schools cricket tournament, backed by Mr Sinkwa and Sports Zone. The event will feature both primary and secondary schools and is being organised through the Matabeleland North Cricket Association.
This marks the first tangible fruit of last year’s coaching workshop held under ZC’s rural outreach programme. Dozens of teachers and volunteers from Binga were trained in basic cricket coaching, tasked with planting the sport in a region where it had barely been whispered.
“The sport was introduced by Zimbabwe Cricket under the Cricket Ekhaya/Cricket Kumunzi programme,” said Ronald Siyamwamwata, one of the key organisers. They conducted a coaching course and that’s how it started, nothing much happened after that, until now.”
After nearly a year of silence, the flame has been relit.
“We thought of activating the sport again since we already have trained coaches and eager children. We just needed to provide the platform,” he said.
Siyamwamwata, a passionate volunteer and sports development advocate, praised the collaborative effort behind the revival.
“We’ve had great support from the Matabeleland North cricket body. Nash and Naph have both come on board, and the District Schools Inspector has been very encouraging. Our sponsors have also played a big role,” he said.
“And we’re grateful to the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture. This initiative fits into the national vision of leaving no one and no place behind. Sport is a powerful tool, especially in fighting drug and substance abuse, among youth.”
Traditionally seen as an urban elite sport, cricket’s journey into rural Binga could unearth raw, untapped talent, Zimbabwe’s next big stars from unexpected places.
Eight secondary schools are set to participate: Binga, Manjolo, Lusulu, Kariyangwe, Samende, Easy Learning, Masibinta and Chinonge. On the primary schools’ side, action will come from Binga, Bulawayo Kraal, Kariyangwe, Msenampongo, Donga, Twabane and Chinonge.
And this won’t be a boys only affair.
“Every team will field at least four girls,” Siyamwamwata confirmed.
“We believe in an inclusive approach to sport and we want our girls to also try their luck in cricket.”
Meanwhile, Siyamwamwata also gave an update on another marquee event on the district’s sports calendar, the Kasambabezi Marathon, confirmed for 27 September.
The race will feature the traditional full marathon (42.2km), half marathon (21.1km), 10km, and 5km fun run. Entry fees are US$20, US$15, US$10 and US$5 respectively.
Three side events are also lined up: a 50km cycle race, draughts and chess.
“We’re looking forward to a fun-filled event,” he said.
