Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE’S hopes of qualifying for the WBSC Under 23 Baseball World Cup in 2026 came to a crushing end on Sunday after a 21–2 loss to hosts South Africa in the final of the WBSC Africa Under 23 Baseball Championships in Boksburg, Gauteng.
The result booked South Africa’s ticket to next year’s global showpiece in Nicaragua, where they’ll join 10 other nations that have already sealed their spots.
The hosts were a cut above throughout the three team tournament, which also featured Benin, and completed an unbeaten run in emphatic style.
For Zimbabwe, it was a tough finish to what had been a promising campaign.
They beat Benin twice to reach the final, but the gap in experience and resources was exposed against a slick South African side that scored in every inning and played with sharper technical discipline.
Despite the heavy defeat, Zimbabwe Baseball Association (ZBA) vice president Eldon Mudzingwa remained upbeat about the team’s progress.
“We are not yet at the level we want to be, but we are laying down foundations. We have junior teams coming through, and we are building step by step.
“We had to depend on some donor funds, which came from Japan. If we can get more support, we would be in a better position,” said Mudzingwa.
He praised the players for their passion and called on the Government and corporate partners to back the sport.
“We are representing the nation hence we are to the Government to assist us. With proper backing, we can compete with the top teams.
“The boys have shown great spirit and commitment; they just need resources to match their ambition.”
South African Baseball union president Dr Marc Moreau commended the continental collaboration behind the tournament.
“It is encouraging to see South Africa working alongside our international counterparts to further the development of baseball across Africa.
“The WBSC Africa Championships have once again demonstrated the value of co-operation in advancing the sport on the continent.”
His vice president, Patrick van Niekerk, also saluted everyone who made the event a success.
“We wish to thank the Boksburg Cardinals, Gauteng Baseball, and all supporters who helped make this event a success under challenging conditions.
“Your dedication ensured a professional and well executed championship.”
The WBSC Africa Under 23 Baseball Championships, sanctioned by WBSC Africa and hosted by South African Baseball, brought together emerging teams from across the continent.
The well organised event strengthened ties within African baseball and showcased the steady growth of the game across the region.
