ZIMBABWE Sports Minister Anselem Sanyatwe was left spellbound by the world-class facilities at Takashinga Cricket Club in Highfield, hailing it as a “powerful testament to visionary leadership” in cricket development. 

The Retired Lieutenant General, accompanied by officials, inspected Takashinga and the iconic Harare Sports Club ahead of the ICC Men’s U19 World Cup, co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15.

His visit aimed to assess the stadia’s readiness for the tournament with the key Government official expressing satisfaction with Zimbabwe Cricket’s preparations for the ICC Under-19 One-Day World Cup.

Takashinga Cricket Club, which has grown into an internationally recognised hub for community-based cricket and youth development, drew special praise from the Minister. He said the venue represents the progress Zimbabwe has made in using sport to empower young people and promote inclusion.

At Takashinga, Minister Sanyatwe met Zimbabwe Cricket chairperson Tavengwa Mukuhlani, managing director and Takashinga Cricket Club founding father Givemore Makoni, and legendary Takashinga player and former Zimbabwe cricket Test captain Hamilton Masakadza, who is the U19 World Cup tournament director.

“This facility tells a powerful story,” Sanyatwe said. 

“It shows that world-class cricket can grow from our communities when there is vision, discipline and support.” 

He added that hosting World Cup matches at Takashinga sends a strong message about Zimbabwe’s commitment to grassroots development and equal opportunity in sport.

Speaking after the inspection, Minister Sanyatwe said Zimbabwe Cricket had done commendable work in preparing the venues that will host the event. 

“The Zimbabwe Cricket executive invited me to see the state of preparedness for the ICC Under 19 World Cup,” Sanyatwe said.

“I am impressed with how ready Zimbabwe Cricket is for this tournament.”

At Harare Sports Club, officials briefed the Minister on pitch preparation, ground maintenance, seating and security arrangements. Sanyatwe said both venues were moving in the right direction but urged organisers to maintain high standards in line with ICC expectations.

Zimbabwe will host 25 matches during the tournament, including the final, while Namibia will host 19. The Minister said the U19 World Cup is an important opportunity for Zimbabwe to exhibit its organisational capacity, hospitality and sporting culture to the world. He also highlighted the economic and social benefits expected from the event, including tourism growth and skills development.