Victoria Falls Stadium Nears Finish Line for 2027 Cricket World Cup

Construction Progress at Victoria Falls Stadium

The Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, is rapidly moving towards finalization, marking an essential step in the nation’s preparations to co-host the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.

With major construction efforts largely completed, the venue is expected to host its first World Cup match on 24 October 2027, where Zimbabwe will take on India in a crucial group-stage clash. Additionally, the stadium will feature three Super 7 matches on 28 and 30 October, and 1 November.

Focus on Final Touches

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has indicated that the focus has shifted to completing the last details of the stadium. A trial match is in the pipeline before the grand opening, ensuring that the venue is fully ready for international scrutiny.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has noted that the stadium's foundational structures, including crucial facilities like the media and broadcast centers, changing rooms, and medical facilities, are in place. Now, workers are dedicated to finalizing the roof, installing seating, and perfectionizing other essential elements of the venue.

Excitement for Future Matches

Givemore Makoni, managing director of Zimbabwe Cricket, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the developments, noting that the delivery of remaining materials has allowed the team to proceed smoothly with the finishing touches.

“We are closing in on the main building works. Now, we are all about the details that will complete the venue. With the delivery of all outstanding materials, we’re in a strong position,” Makoni commented.

The target for complete readiness is set for mid-2027, complemented by an international series designed to further test the facilities before the World Cup officially begins. This trial match will serve as an assessment of the field conditions and match-day logistics.

Highlighting the Venue's Tourist Appeal

The Victoria Falls Stadium is not just about cricket; it offers a unique experience for international fans. Located near one of the world’s most iconic tourist attractions, the stadium is poised to draw cricket lovers who can combine their passion for the sport with the majestic natural beauty of Victoria Falls.

Sarah Edgar, tournament director for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, highlighted the exciting developments during her recent venue inspection. “We commend the progress made towards accomplishing the baseline standards for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027,” she said. Edgar also underscored the importance of Victoria Falls as a special destination that merges cricket with tourism for an unforgettable experience.

Overall Venue Preparation Insights

The Victoria Falls facility was a key highlight during an ICC inspection that also included Harare and Bulawayo, the other two host cities. The comprehensive evaluation commenced at Takashinga Cricket Club in Harare, which is under consideration for warm-up matches, before proceeding to Harare Sports Club, Victoria Falls, and Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

Tournament director Hamilton Masakadza accompanied Edgar on the review, focusing on progress to meet tournament requirements. While Victoria Falls is undergoing the construction of a new stadium, the approach in Harare and Bulawayo includes upgrading existing venues to align with modern international standards.

Adjustments such as the addition of bucket seating in certain stands and introduction of floodlights at Queens Sports Club and Victoria Falls Stadium are part of the planned enhancements. These upgrades reflect a significant transformation since Zimbabwe last hosted the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in 2003.