Online Reporter
Eddie Chikamhi-Zimpapers Sports Hub
INTERNATIONAL Cricket Council chairman Jay Shah has hailed Tavengwa Mukuhlani’s appointment as ICC deputy chair as a significant milestone for the Zimbabwean game and a recognition of the country’s growing influence in the global sport.
Mukuhlani, who will serve as Shah’s deputy until November 2027, becomes the first Zimbabwean to hold one of the most influential positions in world cricket.
He succeeded Imran Khwaja, who has stepped down from the ICC Board.
The appointment comes at a crucial time for African cricket, with Zimbabwe set to co-host the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 alongside South Africa and Namibia.
Given his extensive leadership experience at Zimbabwe Cricket and deep understanding of the regional landscape, the ICC believes Mukuhlani will bring valuable insight as preparations gather momentum for a landmark World Cup, which will return to African soil for the first time in 24 years.
Shah said Mukuhlani’s appointment would further strengthen the growth and development of cricket across the globe.
The ZC boss also chairs the Africa Cricket Association, and he has been credited with driving the rapid growth of the sport on the continent.
“I warmly congratulate Tavengwa Mukuhlani on his appointment as Deputy Chair of the ICC,” Shah said in a statement.
“His experience in cricket administration, understanding of the global game and commitment to its development will be invaluable to the ICC Board.”
The Indian businessman and cricket administrator said Mukuhlani had won the trust and confidence of fellow ICC directors through years of dedicated service to the sport.
“Tavengwa has earned the confidence of his fellow directors, and I look forward to working closely with him to strengthen cricket across our members and create greater opportunities for the game to grow worldwide.
“His election is also a significant milestone for Zimbabwe, as he becomes the first Zimbabwean to serve as Deputy Chair.
“With cricket expanding globally and returning to the Olympic Games, strong leadership will be vital.
“I wish Tavengwa every success in his new role,” said Shah.
Mukuhlani has served as ZC chairman since 2015 and has won successive mandates from stakeholders, securing re-election in 2019 and again in 2023.
Legacy of debt clearance
His tenure has been marked by several notable achievements, including the clearance of a legacy debt estimated at US$27 million, the advancement of women’s cricket and the expansion of international fixtures for both the men’s and women’s teams.
Mukuhlani represents Zimbabwe on the ICC Board and has served on several key committees within the global governing body. He currently sits on the ICC Finance and Commercial Affairs Committee and the Nominations Committee, while also chairing the Human Resources and Remuneration Committee.
His appointment places a Zimbabwean at the heart of the ICC’s decision-making structures at a pivotal moment for the sport, as cricket seeks to expand into new markets and prepares for its return to the Olympic Games.
Mukuhlani welcomed the appointment, describing it as both an honour and a responsibility.
“I am deeply honoured by the confidence placed in me by my fellow ICC Board Directors and grateful for the oppor-tunity to serve as Deputy Chair of the ICC,” he said.
“I look forward to working closely with our Chairman, Mr Jay Shah, whose leadership, energy and ambition have brought a clear sense of purpose to the ICC, with a strong focus on growing cricket, creating opportunities for our members and reaching new audiences and markets.
“Cricket is entering an exciting period, particularly with its return to the Olympic Games and continued global expansion.
“I look forward to supporting our Chairman, Mr Jay Shah, and fellow board directors in advancing our shared priori-ties and serving the best interests of cricket globally,” Mukuhlani said.
Mukuhlani has also been instrumental in driving the growth of cricket infrastructure across the country and presided over the first-ever staging of international cricket in Masvingo.
Under his stewardship, ZC are building a stadium in Victoria Falls which will be one of the 2027 World Cup venues.
