tawandamusarurwa
Online Reporter
Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has welcomed the decision by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to award the country hosting rights of the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, together with Namibia and South Africa.
ZC chairman, Tavengwa Mukuhlani, has described the decision by the international cricket parent body as vote of confidence in the country’s capacity of hosting international tournaments.
“This is fantastic news, coming after we worked hard and with determination as a group to get the World Cup back on our soil,” he said.
“And this is clearly a vote of confidence in what we as Zimbabwe Cricket are doing and in what we as Africa can do.
“We are humbled by the trust the ICC has placed in our bid, and thrilled by the opportunity we have been given to put cricket on a new and sustainable path for generations to come.
“On our part, we are ready to ensure the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 stands out as a unique event that celebrates Africa in all its magnificent splendour, richness, vibrancy, diversity and glory,” said Mukuhlani.
The decision to award the hosting rights of the global cricket showcase to the three Southern Africa countries was confirmed by the ICC on Tuesday.
This will be the first time in 24 years that the 50-over extravaganza will be returning to Africa since Zimbabwe, South Africa and Kenya co-hosted the 2003 edition.
“In October/November 2027, Namibia will host the Men’s Cricket World Cup for the first time alongside Zimbabwe and South Africa.
“South Africa and Zimbabwe last staged the event in 2003,” reads the ICC statement.
The development comes at time Zimbabwe is preparing to host the ICC Women’s World Cup qualifiers, which roll into life on Sunday in Harare.
Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter