Legends’ Group Lead Rathod arrives in Dar to grace Tanzania Union day

DINESH Vaishnav, Senior Group Admin and Country Coordinator of Cricket Reunion Legends of Tanzania, has confirmed the arrival of Group Leader Kanu Rathod in Dar es Salaam this morning from Birmingham, UK.

Rathod’s visit coincides with a groundbreaking ceremony of a new two cricket grounds, acquired by Tanzania Cricket Association (TCA) and this year’s Tanzania Union Day celebrations and his presence is expected to add colour and prestige to the national event.

A cricket legend born in Zanzibar, Rathod symbolises the spirit of unity between Zanzibar and the Mainland making his participation especially meaningful during the Union Day commemorations.

“Cricket has long served as a bridge between Zanzibar and the Mainland,” said Vaishnav.

“And having Rathod here is a powerful reminder of that bond.”

One of the highlights of Rathod’s visit is his role in leading the Cricket Legends at the groundbreaking ceremony of a new two cricket grounds, acquired by the Tanzania Cricket Association (TCA).

The new facility, located at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), is set to become a cornerstone in the development of cricket infrastructure in the country.

Vaishnav emphasised that Rathod saw it as imperative to be part of this historical moment not only for the Cricket Legends but also in honour of the dynamic leadership of TCA under Chairman Balakrishnan Sreekumar.

The occasion also serves as a symbolic celebration of the enduring Union between Zanzibar and the Mainland.

During his five-day stay, Rathod will meet with cricket leaders from across Africa, many of whom are in Dar es Salaam for the ICC Africa Regional Conference, which concluded yesterday.

Over 51 delegates will also attending the two cricket grounds foundation stone-laying ceremony at UDSM, marking one of the continent’s most significant cricket events this year.

Rathod is also expected to meet with TCA officials to explore ways of supporting cricket development in Zanzibar and expanding the Legends’ network across Africa connecting Tanzania’s Cricket Legends with their continental counterparts.

Rathod expressed his great delight and honour in participating in this Union Day event, calling it “a proud moment and the start of a new chapter in Tanzanian cricket history.”

TCA Chairman Sreekumar noted that this project forms part of a wider initiative to grow the sport in Tanzania, with plans for two new grounds and the refurbishment of existing facilities.

He is also delighted to good support his association get from Legends who have been there any time needed.

“This is a landmark moment in our history an era of growth and ambition,” said Sreekumar.

With Rathod’s visit and Union Day aligning, cricket once again proves its role not just as a sport but as a symbol of unity, legacy and national pride.

Born in 1951 at what he called a unique place in Zanzibar, legendary cricketer and hockey, Rathod describe how feels blessed and lucky to be originated from Isles.

“Zanzibar and Tanzania in general have been blessed with successful sports personalities because of talent and hardworking,” he said.

“Tanzania remained a very special place for me.”

Former Shangani Secondary School of Zanzibar started playing cricket at the age of 10 at Mnazi Mmoja Zanzibar using tennis balls and never looked back. He went on to play semi-professional cricket in England with big names from West Indians and England, I play in Birmingham League too.