Zimbabwe’s five first-class teams have been handed a timely boost after local financial institution CABS put forward US$50,000 in direct funding. The cash goes straight to Eagles, Rhinos, Tuskers, Mountaineers and Southern Rocks – the sides competing in the Logan Cup, Pro50 Championship and domestic T20 tournament.
“We are grateful to CABS for coming on board as a valued partner in our domestic cricket journey,” Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) managing director Givemore Makoni said. “This kind of corporate support plays an important role in strengthening the game’s foundation and enabling long-term growth.”
Makoni’s point is hard to argue with. Provincial budgets are often stretched, and a ring-fenced pot of money should allow coaching staff to plan with a touch more certainty. The governing body says the funding model is deliberately simple: cash arrives, teams decide how best to use it, and everyone can see where it has gone. In theory that means clearer accounts and fewer mid-season headaches over unpaid allowances – issues that have dogged Zimbabwean cricket in the past.
“For our provincial teams, it means greater stability and the ability to invest more consistently in key areas such as player welfare, coaching and talent development – factors that are essential to building a stronger pipeline for the future of Zimbabwean cricket,” Makoni added.
CABS managing director Mehluli Mpofu framed the partnership in broader terms. “This sponsorship is more than support for cricket – it is a commitment to the dreams of Zimbabwe’s young people. Across the country, there are talented, passionate youths who see sport as a pathway to opportunity, purpose and pride.”
“At CABS, we recognise that potential. By investing in domestic cricket, we are answering their call, building platforms for growth and helping shape a future where every young Zimbabwean has a chance to shine.”
CABS first dipped its toe into cricket back in 2004 with a small Twenty20 competition. Since then, the company has, by its own admission, “quietly but consistently backed cricket development initiatives”. The latest package is not enormous by international standards, yet in a market where every dollar counts it should stretch a fair way – towards an extra fitness coach here, a better wicket block there.
It also lands in a busy year for Zimbabwe. The national side have already played seven Tests and recently staged a T20I tri-series featuring South Africa and New Zealand. From 30 July, New Zealand return for two more Tests. Stronger domestic structures will not influence those matches overnight, but they might ensure that the next generation arrives better prepared.
