Harare: The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup will return to African soil for the first time in 24 years as Zimbabwe, alongside South Africa and Namibia, takes on the role of co-host for the tournament beginning on October 2 next year. The event will feature 10 teams, including the co-hosts, who have already secured their spots for this major sporting event.

According to International Cricket Council, the announcement has been met with enthusiasm from players and officials alike. All-rounder Sikandar Raza expressed his eagerness to participate in a home World Cup, highlighting the unique opportunity to play in front of local fans. "It's a great privilege, a great honour to play a home World Cup," Raza stated, as quoted by Zimbabwe Cricket. Zimbabwe is drawn into Group A with teams such as defending champions Australia, India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, with an additional team to be determined through the Super Series in Windhoek, Namibia.

Zimbabwe head coach Justin Sammons spoke about the significance of the upcoming matches, noting that games against high-profile opponents like India and Pakistan at Victoria Falls, as well as defending champions Australia, will provide substantial exposure for Zimbabwean players. Sammons also acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Afghanistan, a team known for its X-factor and match-winning potential, having previously defeated notable teams like England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka in earlier tournaments.

Reflecting on Zimbabwe's recent performance at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, where they topped the group stage, pace bowler Richard Ngarava expressed optimism about the team's prospects. "This is a great opportunity for Zimbabwe to showcase ourselves," Ngarava said, emphasizing the country's rich tourism, culture, and sportsmanship. The team anticipates the support of local fans as they commence their World Cup campaign on October 9 in Bulawayo against the top-ranked team from the Super Series.