Zimbabwe in the running to host 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup

Zimbabwe is now one of the two main options being considered to host the Women’s T20 World Cup later this year. The tournament, which is set to start on October 3, was originally planned to be held in Bangladesh. However, due to socio-political tensions and security concerns in Bangladesh, the event is likely to be moved.

The UAE is also being considered as a potential host after India withdrew from hosting on August 15. The final decision is expected to be made by the ICC board on August 20.

Zimbabwe's interest in hosting the event stems from their desire to establish themselves as a key cricket destination. They have successfully hosted the ODI World Cup Qualifiers in both 2018 and 2023. The last time Zimbabwe hosted a World Cup was in 2003, alongside South Africa and Kenya.

Although the Zimbabwean men’s team has missed out on qualifying for the last two ODI World Cups and two of the last three T20 World Cups, and the women’s team has never qualified for a World Cup, Zimbabwe is eager to be a neutral host for this major competition.

Zimbabwe will also be co-hosting the men’s Under-19 World Cup with Namibia in 2026 and the ODI World Cup with South Africa and Namibia in 2027. To prepare for these events, Zimbabwe is working with local government authorities to build two more international grounds in Victoria Falls and Mutare.

Currently, Zimbabwe has two main venues: Harare Sports Club, which now has floodlights, and Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. These venues were used for televised matches during the last World Cup Qualifiers. The country believes that October’s weather, which is just before the monsoon season, will be favorable for hosting the tournament, unlike India and Sri Lanka, which are expected to experience rain.

Additionally, the cost of hosting the tournament in Zimbabwe is lower compared to the UAE, which could be a significant advantage in the ICC’s decision-making process.