By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, marking the tournament’s return to Africa after 24 years.
Twelve venues across the three nations were unveiled alongside the official tournament brand, “Three Nations, One Heartbeat”.
The reveal was made at a spectacular launch event at the Inanda Polo Club, Johannesburg, that was attended by top cricket officials, current cricketers and legends of the game.
The tournament’s 12 host venues that were revealed are: Wanderers Stadium (Johannesburg), Centurion (Tshwane), Newlands Cricket Ground (Cape Town), Kingsmead Cricket Ground (Durban), St George’s Park (Gqeberha), Mangaung Oval (Bloemfontein), Boland Park (Paarl), and Buffalo Park (KuGompo City, formerly known as East London) in South Africa; Harare Sports Club (Harare), Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo), and the newly constructed Fale Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium (Victoria Falls) in Zimbabwe; and Namibia Cricket Ground (Windhoek) in Namibia.
Jay Shah, ICC Chairman said: “This marks an exciting milestone on the road to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027. The unveiling of the host cities and the tournament brand signals the start of a journey that will unite fans around the world and build anticipation for one of our sport’s biggest global events.
“The return of this prestigious tournament to Africa after 24 years is a landmark moment for cricket. We are confident that South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia will deliver an unforgettable event, showcasing the warmth, passion and rich diversity that make this region truly unique.”
Sanjog Gupta, ICC CEO said: “The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup represents the legacy and spectacle of Limited Overs Cricket. It also marks the return of the pinnacle event to Africa after more than two decades and will celebrate a continent defined by extraordinary people, vibrant cultures, breathtaking experiences and deep love for Sport.”
“The vibrant brand that was unveiled reflects the energy, ambition and spirit of the event while every host city offers fans a unique opportunity to experience the warmth and diversity that make Africa truly memorable. Combined with the meaning delivered by the growth of the game and inspiration for new generations of fans, the event will assume regional and global significance.”
“Together with our hosts, we look forward to welcoming the world to Africa for a spectacular journey that celebrates the compelling moments of our sport and the region’s passion and cultural heritage.”
Trevor Manuel, Local Organising Committee Board Chairman said: “This is far more than the unveiling of a tournament brand and host cities; it is the moment Africa begins its invitation to the world. The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 will showcase the very best of our three nations and demonstrate what can be achieved when countries unite behind a common purpose.
“We are determined to deliver a tournament that will be remembered not only for exceptional cricket, but for the warmth of our people, the richness of our cultures and the lasting legacy it leaves for communities and for the growth of the game across the continent.”
Qondisa Ngwenya, CEO of the LOC said: “The unveiling of this exciting brand identity marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards an ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup that belongs to all of Africa. “Make the Circle Bigger” is a powerful expression of our ambition to inspire new generations, bring more people into the game and create an event that is inclusive, vibrant and unmistakably African.
“Our host cities will each offer a distinctive experience while together presenting a seamless celebration of world-class cricket. Working alongside the ICC, our host governments, host venues and commercial partners, we are committed to delivering an exceptional tournament that will set new benchmarks for fan experience, operational excellence and the enduring legacy of cricket across South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.”
While the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup returns to the region for the first time since 2003, South Africa has remained a regular host of major ICC events. These include the inaugural ICC Men’s T20 World Cup (2007), the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cups (2020 and 2024), the inaugural ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup and the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup (both in 2023).