The Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium in Victoria Falls is nearing completion as Zimbabwe steps up preparations to co-host the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 alongside South Africa and Namibia.
Major construction work at the new venue is substantially complete, with Zimbabwe Cricket now focusing on finishing touches ahead of the stadium’s first trial match, which will be announced in due course.
The stadium is scheduled to host Zimbabwe’s final group-stage match against India on 24 October 2027, followed by three Super 7 fixtures on 28 and 30 October and 1 November.
According to Zimbabwe Cricket managing director Givemore Makoni, key facilities, including the media centre, broadcast centre, changing rooms, medical facilities, grandstands and grass banks, are substantially complete.
Roofing, the installation of bucket seats and other finishing works are ongoing, while corporate gazebos are also planned.
Makoni said all outstanding materials had been delivered, allowing work to focus on completing the remaining elements of the project.
“The main building works are as good as complete and we are now concentrating on the finishes that will bring the stadium together, with all the outstanding materials having been delivered,” he said.
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He added that progress on the outfield and stadium facilities had heightened excitement about the prospect of hosting cricket at the venue.
Full completion is targeted for mid-2027, with an international series expected to provide a more comprehensive test of the facilities before the World Cup. An initial trial match will assess the playing surface and essential match-day operations.
Progress on Zimbabwe’s preparations was also highlighted during a recent inspection by the International Cricket Council (ICC), which visited venues in Harare, Victoria Falls and Bulawayo.
The inspection began at Takashinga Cricket Club in Harare, which is being considered as a potential venue for World Cup warm-up matches, before proceeding to Harare Sports Club, Victoria Falls and Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
The inspection was led by ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 tournament director Sarah Edgar and Zimbabwe tournament director Hamilton Masakadza.
Edgar said the inspection team was pleased with the progress made in meeting the baseline requirements needed to bring the venues up to tournament standards.
She noted that improvements to the stadiums and wider venue infrastructure were evident and would help ensure the grounds were ready to host the global event.
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