CHITUNGWIZA is set to own a cricket ground following the successful application for land by Uprising Cricket Club with the project perfectly fitting into Zimbabwe Cricket's (ZC) facilities projects that have seen several initiatives being rolled out across the country in recent months.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa last month initiated the construction of the Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium in Victoria Falls. ZC also signed a memorandum of understanding with the City of Gweru to construct a stadium there while the association has also identified a portion of land in Mutare for the same purpose.
Uprising, who play in the top tier league of the Mashonaland Cricket Association, the Vigne Cup, recently celebrated 25 years at Harare Sports Club.
The event was graced by Givemore Makoni, the managing director of ZC, who attended as the guest of honour and pledged support for Uprising's ground construction project.
“We have walked with you on this long journey. Together we have seen the ups and have known the downs. But, one thing I would like to commend you for is your resilience. Chitungwiza stands as the conveyor belt of cricket, producing many youngsters both male and female who are representing the country at national team and age group categories,” Makoni said.
“We are humbled by your contribution to the growth of the game and as open as our door is, we remain open to assist you in your endeavours in the best possible way we can.”
Uprising was formed by founder and chairperson Claudius Mukandiwa, the late Spencer Rupiya and Kevin Masekesa (late) on May 9, 1999. Club vice chairperson, Goden Ncube, chronicled events that gave birth to the club.
“The reason why this club was founded is because of racial segregation that we endured as blacks during the 90s. The racism that was in the sport in general, especially the game of cricket was just unheard of. It was very serious. We are proud to have a ZC board that is now focusing on development headed by the current chairperson, Tavengwa Mukuhlani,” said Ncube.
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“When this club was formed, it had to cater for the majority of youngsters as well who could not afford to play the gentleman's game of cricket because it was treated as elite.”
Mukandiwa reached out to corporates and other sponsors in their various capacities to partner them towards the construction of their cricket ground in Chitungwiza.
“The ground is a low-hanging fruit, it is our desire through ZC, corporates and other well-wishers to come on board and help us put our dream to reality and finish the ground project. It shall churn out talent, continuously catering for the Chitungwiza community which is endowed with immense talent,” Mukandiwa said.
