Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
SOUTH Africa Test captain Temba Bavuma has called for sustained investment in youth cricket, saying early development remains the foundation for producing elite players, as Zimbabwe hosts Friday’s ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup final between India and England.
Bavuma, who is in the country for the showpiece match at Harare Sports Club, said his own rise from township cricket to the top of the international game underscores the value of structured youth pathways.
Fast-tracked into franchise cricket at the age of 18, Bavuma went on to make history as South Africa’s first black Test captain, the first black Proteas batsman to score a Test century and the first skipper to lead the nation to a World Test Championship title.
He said hosting global youth tournaments is especially significant for emerging cricket nations such as Zimbabwe.
“Having countries like Zimbabwe and Namibia hosting global tournaments is very important. It excites the nation, it inspires the next generation, and it allows young players to see the best youth cricketers in the world up close,” Bavuma said.
“You also get big names coming in as ambassadors, commentators and coaches, and that helps grow the game.”
Attention now shifts to Friday’s final, where India and England will battle for the Under-19 crown at Harare Sports Club.
India arrive as the tournament’s most successful nation and are chasing a record-extending sixth title, while England will be seeking to add to their lone triumph, achieved in 1998.
Bavuma believes the final will be decided as much by mental strength as technical skill.
“In finals, skill is important, but temperament is what really separates teams. The players who can manage pressure, stay calm and make good decisions are usually the ones who come out on top,” he said.
As India pursue history and England hunt redemption, the final provides a global stage where the next generation of cricket talent will test its nerve—and possibly take the first step towards careers shaped by the same youth investment Bavuma now champions.
