Namibia cricket chair urges Associates to look at 'bigger picture' in ODI World Cup restructuring

The upcoming 2027 Cricket World Cup presents an opportunity for South Africa to rebuild diplomatic ties across Africa, according to Trevor Manuel, chairperson of the tournament's Local Organising Committee and former finance minister. In the wake of a recent surge in xenophobic violence and anti-immigrant rhetoric, South Africa finds itself increasingly viewed with anger and suspicion across the continent.

The tournament, co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, will be contested by 14 nations across 12 venues, with the majority of them situated in South Africa.

Manuel emphasized the significance of the World Cup beyond the boundary ropes, urging attendees to speak with one voice about their shared African identity and reject division based on factors such as birthplace, language, and skin color. He condemned the recent acts of xenophobia and Afrophobia, emphasizing that hatred and intolerance have no place in society.

Manuel stressed that the World Cup should be seen as a platform for rebuilding trust and demonstrating the ideals of Ubuntu, a belief in unity rooted in the region's indigenous languages and enshrined in South Africa's Constitution.

By hosting the World Cup, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia aim to demonstrate their commitment to unity and diversity, both within their respective nations and as a collective African community. Manuel emphasized that the tournament "belongs to the entire region," urging participants and attendees to view it as a shared journey towards fostering stronger relationships and cooperation among African nations.