ZIMBABWE Cricket chairperson Tavengwa Mukuhlani concluded the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Trophy Tour with a divine call for the local boys to be successful as he officially handed over the iconic trophy to Harare Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Charles Tavengwa at Takashinga Cricket Club in Highfield, Harare, yesterday.
The trophy made its final stop yesterday, bringing to a close an intense three-day journey that kicked off in Masvingo before moving to Bulawayo.
“The ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup trophy is now officially in the hands of our government,” Mukuhlani said yesterday.
“And we look forward to an exciting and successful tournament. What remains for me is to wish the best of luck to all the participating teams.
“And may God bless Zimbabwe so that we are successful.”
Zimbabwe will co-host the ICC Under-19 Men’s World Cup with Namibia from January 15 to February 6, 2026.
“This tournament is more than a showcase of talent, it is a celebration of youth, sportsmanship and national pride.
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“Our country is ready to welcome the world and it is fitting that the trophy concludes this tour, where Zimbabwe’s group games against England, Pakistan and Scotland will be played,” Mukuhlani added.
“This handover symbolises not only government support for cricket, but also a shared commitment to promoting sport, youth engagement and community development.
“Honourable Minister, I recall during the briefing that I did mention that this is a community club run by the community of Iceland. And what a beautiful place for us to be here.
“So, as Zimbabwe Cricket, we are grateful to the government of Zimbabwe, the City of Harare, and our fans for your unwavering support. Together, we are building a future where young cricketers can dream big and achieve even bigger.”
In accepting the trophy on behalf of the government, Tavengwa said the hosting of the U19 World Cup promotes regional collaboration and boosts local cricket development.
“This prestigious symbol of global sporting excellence represents not only the highest standards of youth cricket, but also serves as a powerful beacon of inspiration for the young people of our beloved nation, Zimbabwe,” he said.
“To us, this aligns directly with the strategic objectives of the National Development Strategy tool, that is NDS2, which prioritises the promotion of Zimbabwe as a competitive and attractive destination for international events.
“Today’s occasion provides a significant platform to showcase another metropolitan province in Zimbabwe at large as a premier hub for sports tourism, distinguished by quality infrastructure, a safe environment and unparalleled hospitality. We are known as Zimbabweans for our hospitality throughout the world.”
Speaking on behalf of Harare mayor Jacob Mafume, councillor Stanley Manyenga described the hosting of “the prestigious U19 global showcase” in Harare as a privilege.
“This event reflects our city’s proud history of supporting sport and celebrating young talent. Cricket is not just a game, it is a tool for unity, discipline and personal growth,” he said.
“Harare has produced some of Zimbabwe’s finest cricketers, and hosting this global event reinforces our role as a city that nurtures talent and showcases excellence.
“We are proud to welcome the world to our cricket grounds and to our communities. To our young people: let this trophy inspire you to dream big, work hard and pursue excellence --- both on the cricket field and in life.”
