Africa Cricket Association Plans Continental T20 Cup to Boost Cricket Development

Proposed Continental T20 Cup by ACA

Cape Town [South Africa], April 8: The Africa Cricket Association (ACA) is considering the introduction of a continental T20 Cup aimed at enhancing revenue and supporting its initiatives. This tournament, akin to the Asia Cup, is intended to foster cricket development throughout Africa, as reported by a leading sports news outlet.

Following a restructuring last year, with Tavengwa Mukuhlani from Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) taking the helm, the ACA is currently assessing financially sustainable proposals. However, the tournament is not anticipated to commence before 2027.

Key discussions are ongoing regarding the tournament's scheduling and qualification criteria. The timing will significantly depend on South Africa's availability and commitment, as they await details from the upcoming Future Tours Program (FTP).

Cricket South Africa (CSA) is in favor of the continental T20 Cup initiative but requires adjustments in its schedule to determine if it can field a competitive team for the event, according to the same sports news outlet.

This year, CSA is negotiating with Zimbabwe Cricket to participate in a tri-series, likely including Namibia, to celebrate the opening of the Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium in Victoria Falls. If this series proceeds, it could serve as a precursor to the anticipated Africa Cup. Importantly, the series is expected to be conducted in the ODI format as teams prepare for the upcoming 50-over World Cup next year.

In 18 months, South Africa is set to co-host the 2027 ODI World Cup alongside Zimbabwe and Namibia. South Africa and Zimbabwe have already secured automatic qualification, while Namibia, as an Associate member, must navigate the qualification process without a guaranteed spot.