Shah to open ICCapproved UDSM cricket grounds

DAR ES SALAAM: THE International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved all three newly developed cricket grounds at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), paving the way for a historic inauguration to be led by ICC Chairman Jay Shah on August 2.

The event will mark the first time an ICC Chairman officially inaugurates a cricket facility in Tanzania, underlining the country’s growing stature in international cricket.

The Tanzania Cricket Association (TCA) described the approval as a landmark achievement in its efforts to develop world-class cricket infrastructure and position Tanzania as a regional hub for the sport.

TCA Chairman Dr Balakrishna Sreekumar announced that the approval followed a successful inspection by ICC representative Chris Chiketa, who visited Tanzania recently to assess whether the facility met international standards.

“We are pleased to announce that the ICC has approved our University of Dar es Salaam grounds,” Dr Sreekumar said.

“This is a significant achievement for Tanzania cricket and reflects our continued commitment to developing quality infrastructure for the game.”

Dr Sreekumar said he met ICC Chairman Jay Shah early this week, who praised the TCA for its outstanding work in growing cricket across the country. He added that Shah has accepted TCA’s invitation to officially inaugurate the three ICCapproved cricket grounds on August 2.

The ceremony is expected to bring together cricket administrators, former players, government officials, stakeholders and members of the cricket fraternity to celebrate what TCA describes as one of the most significant milestones in the history of Tanzanian cricket.

Dr Sreekumar said that in line with the association’s vision of “Growth with a Purpose,” one of the three grounds will be dedicated to the Cricket Legends of Tanzania Reunion in recognition of the pioneers who laid the foundation for the sport from the days of Tanganyika to modernday Tanzania.

According to TCA, the decision has been warmly welcomed by former players and the wider cricket community.

“It is a fitting tribute to the pioneers who laid the foundation for cricket in our country. By preserving their legacy, TCA is inspiring future generations while honouring those who helped build the sport,” Dr Sreekumar said.

He noted that the ICC approval and the inauguration of the UDSM facility will significantly enhance Tanzania’s capacity to host regional and international tournaments while accelerating player development and strengthening the country’s position within African cricket.