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Passionate fans of cricket from across the region and the world beyond have been invited by President Emmerson Mnangagwa to come and enjoy the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier which will be held in the country this month.
Officially opening the ceremony of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier in Harare on Friday, the President said all visitors and fans are welcome to enjoy the warm atmosphere and hospitality of the country.
“I, therefore, invite passionate fans from across the region and beyond, young and old, to come to Zimbabwe to enjoy the game of cricket.
“On the sidelines of the matches ahead, I invite the teams and spectators to spare some time to enjoy our many tourist attractions and other facilities which our country has to offer,” he said.
He said the country was honoured to have been afforded the opportunity to host the global cricket event.
“As a country, we are extremely jubilant that the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup and the big event, being the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, will be coming to Zimbabwe in 2026 and 2027, respectively”
The President commended the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation, the Sports and Recreation Commission and Zimbabwe Cricket for doing a sterling job and raising the country’s flag high internationally while promoting the sport among grassroots communities.
“Through your collective efforts, I am confident that we are set for a memorable event which is bigger and better than the previous events.
“Indeed, over the next few weeks, the world will witness 10 teams bat it out at 4 venues in Harare and Bulawayo to take up the two remaining slots at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in India later in the year,” he said.
He also said sport is an investment which betters health, education and skills for the younger generations, critical in keeping the youth away from drugs and other illicit substances that are ravaging societies.
“While we all admire the on-field achievements, sport also has the power to align our energy, passion and enthusiasm around a collective cause.
“The magic, potential and hope that sport can create among children in our townships and villages must be harnessed to ensure that no one and no place is left behind across all sporting disciplines.”
Added the Head of State, “In this regard, my Government is committed to providing an environment in which more young people realise success and their full potential through their sporting endeavours.
“My Administration has, therefore, made sport and recreation development a priority in the country which should ultimately improve livelihoods, incomes and ultimately our economy.
“Additionally, we are determined to nurture sporting activities as a vehicle for uniting the nation, promoting social cohesion, peace and harmony as well as entertaining the young and old alike.”
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