Johannesburg, July 31 (V7N)- The One Day International (ODI) Cricket World Cup is returning to Africa after two decades, with the names of 12 host cities for the 2027 tournament announced at a grand ceremony in Johannesburg, South Africa.
At the event, organizers unveiled the World Cup’s new brand identity, “Make the Circle Bigger,” along with the official theme, “Three Nations, One Heartbeat.”
Several cricket legends and current stars attended the ceremony, including former South African captain Graeme Smith, Makhaya Ntini, Hashim Amla, current captain Temba Bavuma and pacer Kagiso Rabada. Zimbabwe was represented by Hamilton Masakadza, while Namibia was represented by Rudolf Jannes van Furen.
The 2027 ODI World Cup will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. This will mark the first time Namibia has been included as a host nation of an ICC global event.
The tournament will feature more than 50 matches, with the majority to be played in South Africa. Eight South African cities have been selected as venues — Johannesburg, Centurion, Durban, Gqeberha, Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Paarl and one additional host city.
Zimbabwe is expected to host between seven and 10 matches. The newly built Victoria Falls Stadium, along with Harare Sports Club and Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, will serve as venues. Namibia’s capital Windhoek will host at least three matches.
The World Cup’s brand identity is inspired by the traditional African woven basket, which organizers say represents unity, hospitality and participation. The slogan “Make the Circle Bigger” reflects the aim of bringing more people into the celebration of cricket.
The theme “Three Nations, One Heartbeat” highlights Africa’s unity, diversity and shared spirit as the continent prepares to host one of cricket’s biggest global tournaments.
END/SMA/AJ
