Harare, (New Ziana) – President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Wednesday held a ceremony at the State House to celebrate the inspiring run of the national men’s cricket team, the Chevrons, at the International Cricket Council (ICC) T20 World Cup, describing their performance as a defining moment for Zimbabwean sport on the global stage.
He commended the Chevrons for their progression to the Super-8 stage, describing the achievement as a powerful statement of the growing competitiveness of Zimbabwe in international cricket.
The determination of the team, discipline and unity had not only brought pride to the nation, he said, but also reaffirmed the place of Zimbabwe among emerging forces in world sport.
“The Chevrons showcased sporting prowess and were true ambassadors of our national character of resilience and an inherent warrior spirit. You brought great honour to our motherland and positively profiled Brand Zimbabwe through your actions on and off the field,” said President Mnangagwa
He singled out the team’s historic victory over Australia as a standout moment of the tournament, noting that it captured global attention and reignited national pride, adding the triumph demonstrated that Zimbabwe has the capacity to overcome even the most formidable opponents.
“It sent a strong message that greatness is always within reach,” he said, urging young people to draw inspiration from the team’s success, which he attributed to hard work, discipline and self-belief.
President Mnangagwa also highlighted the role of sport as a key pillar of diplomacy, emphasizing how cricket continues to build bridges, foster unity and project messages of peace and cooperation internationally.
He applauded Zimbabwe Cricket for its role in advancing the sport and strengthening the global sporting footprint of the country.
President Mnangagwa commended Zimbabwean supporters, both at home and in the Diaspora, whose unwavering backing created a vibrant atmosphere during the tournament, adding their unity reflected the country’s diversity and shared national identity.
In recognition of efforts to grow the game, President Mnangagwa commended the Zimbabwe Cricket leadership for expanding infrastructure, citing new facilities Ncema Valley Country Club in Victoria Falls and Masvingo Sports Club as critical to grassroots development and talent identification.
He further praised the successful hosting of the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, describing it as a testament to organizational capacity and readiness of the country to stage major international events.
Looking ahead, President Mnangagwa reaffirmed Government commitment to supporting the hosting of the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, which Zimbabwe will co-host with South Africa and Namibia.
He called on all stakeholders to work in unity to deliver a tournament that meets the highest global standards.
“This presents a historic opportunity to showcase the unique hospitality of our people and our passion for cricket,” he said.
In a direct message to the players, President Mnangagwa urged them to view the recognition as a stepping stone rather than a final destination, encouraging them to aim higher and continue raising the national flag with pride.
“You have made the nation proud. Go further, aim higher, write new chapters in Zimbabwean sport,” he said.
New Ziana
