Trust Rukwava
Centre News Sports Hub
Masvingo-Cricket stakeholders have applauded the hosting of International Cricket Council (ICC) Under 19 World Cup warm up games in Masvingo as carrying major social, economic and sport development benefits.
Masvingo will for the 1st time host Bangladesh VS Pakistan and Zimbabwe VS New Zealand at Masvingo sports club to give local cricket fans a rare opportunity to watch the elite game national teams in action.
From a social perspective stakeholders have said these matches boost community pride and unity.
Masvingo Cricket Association, Chairman, Louis Maware said hosting world class national teams builds local excitement and unity.
“Not only that, we will have inspiration for our youth. Local children and aspiring cricketers are exposed to International standards sparking motivation. Cultural exchange comes in again. Interaction with global teams and fellow Zimbabweans promotes tolerance and awareness” said Maware.
International exposure has also been hailed as a conveyor belt for the promotion of Sport in Schools as these warm up matches raise cricket at grassroots and schools levels.
From an economic aspect there is tourism boost for Masvingo Province.
“Visitors, players, officials, media and fans generate income for hotels restaurants and transport operators. The Great Zimbabwe Monuments will also be a focal point for sight-seeing.” added Maware.
Jobs will also be created for the locals through temporary jobs in logistics, security, catering and ground keeping during the warm up games.
“Our Clean City of Masvingo also receives City Branding. Masvingo City gains recognition, possibly attracting future national and international events” said Maware.
A schools cricket fan said the impact on young cricketers should be taken into cognisance.
“Exposure to role models and learning opportunity is availed. Watching peers from Zimbabwe under 19 team, Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh builds ambition and confidence. This is a great learning opportunity. Youngsters observe technique discipline and professionalism first hand. This Exposure to High level competition has a great impact. Young players see international standards up close fielding drills, fitness levels not excluding discipline. This gives them an opportunity to learn what is required to compete at elite youth levels” said the fan.
Maware said youth cricketers will gain access to improved facilities as ICC events demand quality pitches, nets and changing rooms and these upgrades benefit local players, long term and better training conditions allow talent to flourish.
Maware further said coach and mentor development is one key area Masvingo will benefit from.
“Local coaches and administrators learn from interactions with international teams and officials. This enhances elite level coaching at grassroots. For Masvingo this historic moment shall remain with us for years to come. Let’s all come and cheer our boys. Entry is free.” said an elated Maware.
Masvingo City Council Mayor, Aleck Tabe said they are excited to be hosting some of the ICC world cup matches and welcome the global cricket national teams saying they we be safe in the ancient city.
“We are excited to be hosting these great cricket national in our city, we are happy that they coming brings business opportunity and boost our image, we will offer full support and ensure great services during their stay, our water is clean and we wish them a good stay, they will also contribute to the development and growth of this sport genre for our young residents hence we are so enthusiastic,” said Mayor Tabe.
