THE countdown to the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 officially gathered momentum on Thursday as Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC), led by chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani, presented the tournament trophy to the Acting President Constantino Chiwenga at a ceremonial event in Harare.
The trophy presentation symbolically marked the official start of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026, which Zimbabwe is co-hosting with Namibia from January 15 to February 6 2026.
The high-profile ceremony followed a successful national trophy tour that took the iconic silverware to Masvingo, Bulawayo and Harare, where fans and the public were treated to colourful parades characterised by music, dance and vibrant community celebrations.
Receiving the trophy, Chiwenga described the occasion as historic, emphasising that it went beyond cricket.
“It is my distinct honour and privilege to welcome you to this historic occasion as we receive the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup trophy here in Zimbabwe,” he said.
“This moment transcends sport. It represents excellence, youth empowerment and enduring global partnership.”
The Acting President said Zimbabwe was deeply honoured to co-host the global youth showpiece and described the presence of the trophy in the country as a powerful statement of confidence.
“The presence of this trophy on our soil is a powerful symbol of Zimbabwe’s renewed centrality in world cricket and our growing stature on the global sporting stage,” he said.
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“Beyond being a sporting competition, this tournament reflects the international community’s confidence in Zimbabwe — in our people, our institutions and our capacity to deliver at the highest standard.”
Chiwenga said the tournament aligned seamlessly with the country’s national development priorities.
“It aligns seamlessly with our national development agenda of developing sport, reinforcing our commitment to youth development, economic growth through sport and the cultivation of national pride and unity.”
He added that the event would have a transformative impact on the domestic game.
“For Zimbabwe Cricket, this tournament marks the beginning of a new growth trajectory.
“It will accelerate grassroots development, inspire the next generation of cricketers, strengthen coaching systems, improve facilities and establish sustainable pathways for emerging talent.
“The legacy of this World Cup will be deeper participation, stronger institutions and a higher performance culture within Zimbabwean cricket.”
Chiwenga assured the International Cricket Council (ICC) and all stakeholders of the government’s full support.
“I assure the International Cricket Council and all partners of the Government of Zimbabwe’s unwavering commitment to delivering a world-class tournament,” he said.
“This commitment is underpinned by firm government guarantees and the co-ordinated leadership of the Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, with advanced preparations underway in infrastructure, logistics, security and inter-agency coordination.”
He also paid tribute to key State institutions involved in the preparations and extended a warm welcome to visiting teams and supporters.
“As we welcome the world, visitors will encounter a peaceful, welcoming and resilient nation, rich in culture, natural beauty and hospitality,” he said.
“Zimbabwe stands ready to project its identity of peace, social cohesion and national pride.”
Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture deputy minister Emily Jesaya said the trophy presentation and the Under-19 World Cup represented an important milestone in Zimbabwe’s broader sporting ambitions.
“The significance of this event stretches far beyond the playing field,” she said.
“It represents an important stepping stone as Zimbabwe prepares to co-host the ICC Senior Men’s World Cup in 2027 alongside the Republic of South Africa (and Namibia).
“By successfully delivering the Under-19 World Cup, Zimbabwe demonstrates its readiness, organisational capability and unyielding commitment to world-class sporting excellence.”
Jesaya said the nationwide trophy tour had already generated excitement and unity.
“The trophy has travelled across Zimbabwe, with parades held in Masvingo, Bulawayo and Harare, where communities, young people and sports enthusiasts have embraced it with great excitement and pride,” she said.
“These moments have ignited a renewed spirit of unity and national celebration.”
Mukuhlani said he was deeply honoured to present the trophy to the Acting President.
“It is a great honour and privilege for us, as Zimbabwe Cricket, to be granted this audience with Your Excellency and to present to you the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Trophy,” he said.
“We bring this trophy to you not only as custodians of the game, but as proud Zimbabweans.
“It symbolises opportunity, trust and belief — belief in our country, belief in our young people and belief in Zimbabwe’s ability to host the world with excellence and dignity.”
He said hosting the tournament was a national moment that belonged to all Zimbabweans.
“Presenting this trophy to the Head of State carries deep meaning for us.
“It affirms that the hosting of a global sporting event is a national moment, one that belongs to every Zimbabwean — from the young child first picking up a bat to the communities that will welcome the world to our country.”
The Zimbabwe Under-19 team will compete at home in Group B against England, Pakistan and Scotland, with all their group matches hosted at Takashinga Cricket Club in Highfield.
“Playing on home soil is a powerful motivator and our young players are preparing with commitment, humility and pride to represent the nation,” the chairman said.
Mukuhlani said ZC had worked steadily to rebuild its international standing.
“Through improved governance, infrastructure development and investment in grassroots programmes, we have regained the confidence of the International Cricket Council,” he said.
“Being entrusted once again to host a global tournament is an honour we do not take lightly.”
He concluded by reaffirming ZC’s commitment to delivering a memorable and impactful event.
“As we prepare for 2026, our venues have been readied, our organising teams are fully engaged and our young cricketers are being supported to compete with confidence and integrity,” he said.
“We are committed to delivering a tournament that reflects the warmth, professionalism and resilience of the Zimbabwean people.”
The ceremony was attended by, among others, ICC representative Niteesha Kothari, ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 Tournament director Hamilton Masakadza, tournament ambassador Tatenda Taibu, ZC managing director Givemore Makoni and the captains of the Under-19 teams of Zimbabwe, England and New Zealand — Simbarashe Mudzengerere, Farhan Ahmad and Tom Jones, respectively.
Zimbabwe will host matches in Harare and Bulawayo, while Namibia will stage games in Windhoek, as the world’s best young cricketers converge in southern Africa for the global youth showpiece.
