Online Reporter
Don Makanyanga-Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE Cricket’s nationwide infrastructure development programme has begun to bear fruit as the country hosts the ICC Under-19 World Cup, with matches being played at venues beyond the traditional cricketing hubs of Harare and Bulawayo.
Masvingo Sports Club has made history as the first venue outside the two major cities to host an international cricket match, with two warm-up games played there ahead of the tournament.
Takashinga Sports Club in Highfield, Harare, will also host several matches, showcasing the sport’s growth in high-density suburbs.
ZC board chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani told Zimpapers Sports Hub that the hosting of the World Cup is a legacy-defining moment for Zimbabwean cricket.
“The Under-19 World Cup has brought significant infrastructure development to the country,” Mukuhlani said.
Mukuhlani emphasised that ZC is committed to spreading the game to all corners of Zimbabwe, with plans to upgrade Emakhandeni Cricket Ground in Bulawayo and construct a new stadium in Victoria Falls.
These venues are earmarked to host international matches, including warm-up games for next year men’s World Cup.
The infrastructure push is part of ZC’s long-term strategy to decentralise the sport and make it more accessible to Zimbabweans.
By investing in stadiums and facilities across the country, ZC aims to nurture talent and grow the game at grassroots level.
This is also in line with the Government’s national objective of not “leaving anyone and any place behind’’.
However, ZC’s bid to host international warm-up matches at all venues which regularly stage domestic First-Class cricket has been pegged back by the absence of long-term leases with the venue owners, which would empower the cricket mother body to develop the grounds and ensure there is a win-win scenario for all parties.
It would also give fans and other cricket enthusiasts across the country a chance to watch the Chevrons playing the international game from up close.
