TCA hails landmark day of progress at home, abroad
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Cricket Association (TCA) is celebrating what it describes as a ‘deeply satisfying’ and ‘landmark’ day, marked by major strides both domestically and on the international front.
TCA Chairman Balakrishnan Sreekumar highlighted a historic development with the return of Zanzibar cricket into the national fold.
“Perhaps the most symbolic breakthrough of the day came with the revival of cricket in Zanzibar after years of dormancy,” he said.
According to Sreekumar, in a significant step forward, Zanzibar will officially field a team in Division Two of the national league beginning in 2025, having fulfilled all regulatory requirements set by the TCA.
He said that Zanzibar cricket leaders have pledged to submit a comprehensive action plan next week aimed at developing school cricket across the Isles, marking the start of a long-overdue rejuvenation of the sport in the area.
“TCA extended its appreciation to Ashish Kamania for his instrumental role in resolving the impasse, while also acknowledging Kanu Rathod, a UK-based Cricket Legends of Tanzania group leader, for his ongoing support and dedication to inclusive cricket development,” he stressed.
Sreekumar also commended Zanzibar’s Ali for his proactive and constructive involvement in the reintegration process.
TCA leadership stated that the day’s accomplishments underscore the power of collaboration, shared vision and persistence.
On the home front, Sreekumar also announced rapid progress on the highly-awaited cricket grounds project at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM).
“The long-anticipated ground levelling work at UDSM is moving forward at record speed. This critical infrastructure upgrade will pave the way for high-quality cricket training and future competitions in the region,” he noted.
He described the momentum behind the project as ‘a gamechanger’ for both grassroots and elite cricket development.
Meanwhile, on the global stage, the association had more reasons to celebrate as the TCA received widespread praise during the International Cricket Council (ICC) conference in Singapore.
“The TCA was mentioned an impressive seven times during the conference, each time in a positive context,” said Sreekumar.
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“In one particularly proud moment, ICC officials recognised TCA as a potential role model for other associate nations, commending our commitment to structure, growth and inclusive development.”
TCA Chairman added: “From infrastructure breakthroughs to global recognition and renewed regional inclusion, today shows what’s possible when the cricket community works together with purpose. We are energised, humbled and ready for the next chapter.”
