Zim Steps Up ICC U19 World Cup Preps as Minister Lt. Gen. Rtd. Sanyatwe Inspects Harare Match Venues
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Sports Buzz – Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Hon. A.N. Sanyatwe, has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to positioning Zimbabwe as a credible and competitive host of global sporting events following a comprehensive tour of International Cricket Council Under 19 World Cup 2026 match venues in Harare.
The Minister visited two key facilities earmarked for the prestigious youth tournament, namely Harare Sports Club and Takashinga Sports Club in Highfield. The tour formed part of ongoing Government inspections and preparations aimed at ensuring Zimbabwe meets and exceeds international hosting standards ahead of the global cricket showcase.
Addressing officials during the visit, Hon. Sanyatwe underscored the importance of sport as a unifying national asset and a powerful tool for youth development, international engagement and economic growth. He said the Under 19 World Cup represents more than just cricket, describing it as an opportunity for Zimbabwe to demonstrate organisational capacity, cultural pride and hospitality on the world stage.
“The hosting of the ICC Under 19 World Cup is a moment of national significance. It is about our young people, our infrastructure and our image as a country. We want the world to see Zimbabwe at its best,” the Minister said.
At Harare Sports Club, officials briefed the Minister on ongoing maintenance works, pitch readiness, seating arrangements and security planning. The venue, steeped in cricketing history and long associated with international matches, remains central to Zimbabwe’s sporting identity. The Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far while urging stakeholders to maintain momentum and attention to detail.
He emphasized that the expectations of the International Cricket Council were high and that Zimbabwe must rise to the occasion. “Hosting rights come with responsibility. Every facility, every official and every process must reflect professionalism and excellence,” he said.
The tour continued to Takashinga Sports Club, a venue that has gained international recognition for its role in promoting inclusivity, youth empowerment and community based sport. Located in Highfield, Takashinga has become a symbol of grassroots development and transformation within Zimbabwean cricket.
Hon. Sanyatwe praised the club’s contribution to nurturing young talent and creating opportunities for players from diverse backgrounds. He noted that the inclusion of Takashinga as a World Cup venue sends a strong message about Zimbabwe’s commitment to inclusive development and community driven sport.
“This facility tells a powerful story. It shows that world class sport can emerge from our communities when vision, discipline and support come together,” he said.
The Minister also highlighted the broader benefits expected from hosting the tournament, including tourism growth, employment creation and skills transfer. He said visiting teams, officials and supporters would have the opportunity to experience Zimbabwe’s culture, heritage and hospitality, aligning perfectly with the mandate of the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture.
He further stressed the importance of inter ministerial cooperation, calling on local authorities, security agencies, sports associations and the private sector to work in unity towards the success of the event. According to the Minister, a successful Under 19 World Cup would strengthen Zimbabwe’s case for hosting more international competitions in the future.
Officials from Zimbabwe Cricket and venue management teams welcomed the Minister’s visit, describing it as a morale booster and a clear signal of Government support. They committed to addressing remaining gaps and ensuring all facilities meet international standards well ahead of the tournament.
The ICC Under 19 World Cup has historically served as a launching pad for future cricket stars, and Hon. Sanyatwe expressed hope that Zimbabwean youths would draw inspiration from the event. He said exposure to international competition at home could ignite dreams, sharpen talent and reinforce discipline among young athletes.
As preparations continue, the Minister’s tour has injected renewed confidence into Zimbabwe’s World Cup journey. With iconic venues like Harare Sports Club and dynamic community hubs like Takashinga Sports Club in focus, Zimbabwe is steadily shaping a tournament that promises not only sporting excellence but also national pride and lasting legacy.
The countdown to 2026 has begun, and all eyes are now on Zimbabwe to deliver a memorable global cricketing experience.
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