HARARE, Apr. 7 (NewsDay Live) - The Energy Park All Stars Cricket Tournament gets underway tomorrow at Prince Edward School in Harare, featuring junior boys’ matches across four age groups — Under-9 to Under-19.
Tournament coordinator Philip Kadziche said final preparations were completed on Monday, with team lists, venue allocations and medical cover confirmed. A field ambulance, funded by title sponsor Energy Park, will be stationed at the venue.
“We’re ready. Protocols have been tightened and buffers built in after last year’s late confirmations. Engagement with coaches is stronger and standards have improved,” Kadziche said.
Organised by All Stars Cricket Academy, the tournament has become a key platform for talent identification. Previous editions have produced players who progressed to national level, including Newman Nyamhuri and Zimbabwe Under-19 cricketer Kirby Maderemete.
Kadziche said the competition is designed to replicate high-pressure match situations.
“That’s the test we want — pressure situations where decision-making is visible,” he said, recalling last year’s Under-16 final, which was decided off the final ball.
This year’s tournament has attracted 44 teams, up from 32, following an outreach programme that included a Durban academy tour and engagements with Mashonaland East schools.
Awards will be presented for best batter, bowler and fielder in each age group. Kadziche, however, emphasised the importance of overall development.
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“Our metric isn’t spectator numbers. It’s how many players leave better — reading the game and handling pressure,” he said.
Player welfare remains a priority, with protection protocols issued to team managers and a liaison officer assigned to monitor workloads.
Energy Park Bulk Fuels executive director Abera Turk said the company’s involvement goes beyond sponsorship.
“What matters is the experience and opportunities we create for players. We want a professional environment that gives them exposure and supports coaches, academies and families,” she said.
“We are also looking to expand into coaching clinics, mentorship and stronger school partnerships. The goal is for every player to leave feeling they have grown and are motivated to take their game further.”
