Chitungwiza to get its first cricket ground.
Uprising Cricket Club leads community-driven initiative.
National support from Zimbabwe Cricket and sponsors.
Symbolizes inclusivity and talent development in cricket.
Chitungwiza, a bustling town in Zimbabwe, is poised to become a beacon of cricketing excellence with the upcoming construction of its first cricket ground. This landmark project, spearheaded by Uprising Cricket Club, aligns seamlessly with Zimbabwe Cricket’s (ZC) ambitious facilities expansion across the nation, marking a significant stride in the country’s sports development.
National Cricket Infrastructure Expansion
The vision for Chitungwiza’s cricket ground is part of a broader initiative championed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZC. Last month, President Mnangagwa initiated the construction of the Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium, a high-profile project aimed at enhancing the sport’s presence in the tourism hub of Victoria Falls. Additionally, ZC has forged a memorandum of understanding with the City of Gweru to establish a cricket stadium there, while land has been identified in Mutare for another similar venture. These projects are not merely about infrastructure; they symbolize a commitment to nurturing talent and promoting cricket as a unifying national sport.
Uprising Cricket Club: A Legacy of Resilience
Uprising Cricket Club, which celebrated its 25th anniversary at Harare Sports Club, stands at the forefront of this movement. Formed on May 9, 1999, by Claudius Mukandiwa, the late Spencer Rupiya, and Kevin Masekesa, Uprising has navigated a journey marked by resilience and triumph over adversity. The club’s vice chairperson, Goden Ncube, recounted the club’s origins, rooted in a response to racial segregation in cricket during the 1990s. “The racism in cricket was profound. Our club was formed to give opportunities to those who were excluded,” Ncube said, highlighting the club’s mission to democratize access to cricket.
Community and Corporate Collaboration
The construction of the Chitungwiza cricket ground is envisioned as a community and corporate effort. Mukandiwa has actively sought partnerships with various sponsors to bring this dream to fruition. “The ground is a low-hanging fruit,” Mukandiwa stated, emphasizing the project’s feasibility and potential impact. “With the support of ZC, corporates, and well-wishers, we can turn this dream into reality. This ground will be a cradle for talent, benefiting the Chitungwiza community which boasts immense talent.”
Endorsements and Future Prospects
Givemore Makoni, managing director of ZC, who attended Uprising’s 25th-anniversary celebrations, pledged ZC’s unwavering support for the project. “We have walked with you on this long journey. Your resilience is commendable. Chitungwiza is a conveyor belt of cricket talent, producing national players across age groups,” Makoni said. His words underscore the strategic importance of the Chitungwiza ground in the broader landscape of Zimbabwean cricket.
Bridging the Gap: From Elitism to Inclusivity
The formation of Uprising Cricket Club was a direct response to the elitism and racial discrimination that plagued cricket in the 1990s. Ncube elaborated on this, noting that the club aimed to make cricket accessible to the majority, particularly those who were financially disadvantaged. This ethos continues to drive the club’s initiatives, as they seek to build facilities that will provide opportunities for all, regardless of socio-economic status.
What the Pitch will offer
Increased access to cricket for Chitungwiza residents.
Development of local talent and youth programs.
Potential for hosting regional and national cricket events.
Strengthening community bonds through sports engagement.
