Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE Cricket has received a US$20 000 financial injection from the Tobacco Industries Cricket Supporters Association (TICSA), in a gesture that underscores the group’s renewed involvement in the local game after years of intermittent activity.
The donation was handed over by TICSA chairman Dave Bain during discussions with Zimbabwe Cricket managing director Givemore Makoni this week, reviving a relationship that has historically played a behind-the-scenes role in supporting cricket development structures in the country.
TICSA’s footprint in Zimbabwe cricket dates back several decades, including its contribution towards infrastructure development at Harare Sports Club ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2003, when Zimbabwe hosted group matches on home soil. The association has also previously supported scholarship initiatives aimed at nurturing emerging talent within the game.
Bain said the organisation was established with a long-term commitment to supporting cricket at all levels, while acknowledging periods of reduced activity.
“Tobacco Industries was created to support cricket at all levels in Zimbabwe and has been doing that for 45 years,” he said.
“During its history, there have been several periods of inactivity, resulting in a decline in interest in the sport.
“Under the current administration of ZC there has been a positive transformation of cricket which our association fully supports and endorses.
“Our intention going forward is to assist the governing body where we can.”
He also pointed to recent developments within Zimbabwe Cricket as a sign of renewed stability and progress on the international stage.
“The recent hosting of World Cup qualifying events, the resumption of visits by international touring teams and the recent outstanding performance of the national team in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is clear evidence that the leadership of ZC has made significant strides in putting Zimbabwe firmly back on the international stage,” Bain said.
“This has been underpinned by strict control of finances, development of the national side and grassroots programmes which have secured the future for some time to come.”
Bain added that the latest contribution was intended to support ongoing work being carried out by the governing body.
“Tobacco Industries welcomes all these initiatives and therefore has offered this donation which we hope in a small way will buttress the continuing efforts of the leadership of ZC,” he said.
Zimbabwe Cricket, under chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani and his board, alongside Makoni and the management team, has in recent years focused on stabilising operations while rebuilding its international calendar and hosting major events at home venues such as Harare Sports Club and Queens Sports Club.
This rebuilding phase has included the hosting of global tournaments such as the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026, as well as Zimbabwe’s notable Super Eight finish at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Makoni welcomed the donation, describing it as a meaningful contribution to ongoing development efforts.
“We are deeply grateful to TICSA for their continued belief in Zimbabwe Cricket,” he said.
“Their contribution over the years has played an important role in the development of the game and this renewed support comes at a time when we are working hard to consolidate our gains and grow the sport even further.”
The latest funding is expected to be channelled towards development programmes as Zimbabwe Cricket continues its efforts to strengthen both its domestic structures and international competitiveness.
Sidumisile Mabena