CRICKET ROUND-UP: AFRICA PLANS T20 TRI-SERIES; MUZARABANI BAN REPORTED; ROCKS COMPLETE HISTORIC DOUBLE
Hope
African cricket administrators have announced plans to introduce a new T20 tri-series involving South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, as part of efforts to expand and commercialise the game across the region.
The proposal was discussed during the ICC Africa Regional Conference in Namibia, with officials targeting a soft launch in August. Most matches are expected to be hosted in Namibia, which is also set to co-host the 2027 ODI World Cup alongside South Africa and Zimbabwe.
In addition to the tri-series, officials are also working on a six-team Africa Cup competition. The tournament will include Full Members South Africa and Zimbabwe, as well as Namibia, while the remaining three slots will be decided through regional qualifying tournaments to widen participation across African cricket nations.
Administrators had initially considered a ten-team format but later settled on six teams, which they believe is more sustainable. The tri-series will serve as a stepping stone before the full Africa Cup is introduced, with emphasis placed on securing strong broadcast and sponsorship deals.
The plan is aimed at strengthening African cricket commercially and competitively, with organisers hoping to mirror the success of tournaments such as the Asia Cup, which features top international teams and attracts strong viewership.
In other developments, Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani has reportedly been handed a two-year ban following his move from the Pakistan Super League to the Indian Premier League.
The 29-year-old had initially gone unsold at both PSL and IPL auctions before being signed as a replacement player. His later switch to the IPL reportedly triggered disciplinary action from PSL authorities, who viewed the move as a breach of contractual obligations.
The decision follows similar cases involving players moving between franchise leagues, with authorities tightening regulations around player commitments and contracts.
On the domestic front, Southern Rocks completed a memorable double after winning the 2025/26 Pro50 Championship with an eight-wicket victory over Mountaineers at Masvingo Sports Club.
Having already secured the Logan Cup title, Southern Rocks capped a dominant season in style, powered by standout performances from Matthew Campbell and Innocent Kaia.
Campbell made an impact with both ball and bat, taking 3/41 in 10 overs before scoring a crucial 67 off 79 balls to help stabilise the chase.
He was well supported by Shelton Mazvitorera, who finished with 3/31, as Mountaineers were restricted to 230 runs in 49.2 overs.
Kaia then guided the chase with an unbeaten 112 off 113 deliveries, steering Southern Rocks to victory in 40.4 overs with only two wickets lost.
The win secured Southern Rocks’ second Pro50 Championship title and confirmed their dominance in Zimbabwean domestic cricket this season, marking a strong resurgence for the franchise.
