ZIMBABWE’S post qualification for the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup was met with a mix of jubilation and tears as the local fans bade a bittersweet farewell to Sri Lanka on Thursday night.
The Zimbabwean supporters, who had travelled thousands of miles to cheer on their team, were overcome with emotion as they reflected on their incredible journey.
Tears streamed down faces, smiles spread wide and hugs were exchanged as fans bid adieu to the cricket team in the island nation, where they had made unforgettable memories.
The past few weeks had been a rollercoaster of emotions, with the team and their fans sharing in the highs and lows of an unforgettable campaign.
“We came, we saw, we conquered. We have had the best time, and we are so proud of you (team),” Godwin Mamhiyo a representative of the Zimbabwean fans said, his voice cracking with emotion.
From Colombo to Kandy, and back to Colombo, the Zimbabwean fans had followed their team to every venue: singing, cheering and dancing at the stands.
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They had braved logistical challenges, footing their own bills to travel to Sri Lanka, but their passion and dedication never waged.
“We’ve been to every game, every venue,” said Malvin Kwaramba, the chief fan representative.
“We’ve celebrated with the team, and we’ve cried with them. They’re like family now.”
The fans’ celebrations had been legendary, with drinks and laughter shared with the team on nights after beating Australia and Sri Lanka.
The team’s never-say-die attitude had inspired them, and they had repaid that spirit with unwavering support.
Now that the Chevrons prepare to fly out to India for the Super 8, their fans will carry the memories of this incredible journey with them as the fans heads back to Zimbabwe.
Though their time in Sri Lanka has come to an end, their support for the Chevrons is set to continue, a testament to the power of cricket to unite and inspire.
“We may be leaving Sri Lanka, but our spirits remain high, buoyed by the knowledge that we have been part of something special,” Kwaramba added.
“As we bid farewell to this beautiful island nation, we take with us the memories of an unforgettable adventure, and the promise of more to come.”
As it stands, it will be sad not to have the fans who carried the team through in Sri Lanka, who brought colour and festivities to the T20 global showpiece.
Zimbabwe fans brought a lot of energy to games and managed to convert neutrals into Zimbabwe supporters with their huka huka celebrations at the fall of every opposition wicket.
Paul Mungofa, the leader of the Brass Band, has appealed to corporates and individuals to help both the Castle Corner supporters and the Brass Band to make the long trip to India and continue to support the boys as they are on cusp of making history by going all the way to the semis and finals.
“Having enjoyed the World Cup preliminary round, I’m happy that Zimbabwe has won all their games to date.
“I have listened to the Sri Lanka brass band play, and I have heard the voice of the Zimbabwe Castle Corner supporters singing and dancing. The atmosphere in that ground was marvelous,” he said
“I appeal to Zimbabweans, imagine if our local brass band and the Castle Corner supporters were given the same platform at this World Cup — what an incredible sight that would be.
“We owe it to our ancestors, who’ve carried the colours of our national team jerseys, to make a mark.”
He added: “We’re not just competitors in this World Cup; we’re aiming for the crown. As one supporter said, ‘We’re not just pushovers, we’re going for the title.’ We’re in the title race, and I hope we bring it home for the 14 million Zimbabweans to enjoy.
“I urge local businessmen to support our team, just like they do for football. Let’s ferry prominent supporters to the games and create an electrifying environment for our boys.
“Our Brass Band and Castle Corner supporters can make a huge difference — let’s make some noise and bring it home.”
Captain Sikandar Raza praised the fans’ efforts and camaraderie.
“They’ve done it out of their own pockets, travelling thousands of miles to support us,” he said.
“We’re grateful for their passion.”