Story by Mthokozisi Dube
DINGANI Bookshop Cricket Academy clinched the Bulawayo Metropolitan junior league title after a narrow two-wicket victory over National University of Science and Technology (NUST), sealing promotion to the First League.
The nine-team competition, run under the Bulawayo Metropolitan Cricket Association, continues to play a key role in nurturing emerging talent across the country.
Dingani Bookshop topped the standings with 32 points from seven matches, capping a dominant campaign with a hard-fought win over NUST in the final fixture.
All-rounder Charles Thatha, who scored 18 runs in the decision match, said competing at the Heath Streak Cricket Academy provides inspiration for young players.
“It is good that cricket is being played at grassroots level, and as players, nothing motivates us more than playing at this facility named after a cricket star in Heath Streak,” he said.
NUST player Brendon Shumba highlighted the sport’s growing footprint in tertiary institutions, crediting grassroots structures for sustained development.
“Cricket is gaining traction in tertiary institutions. I have played for NUST since Part One, and I hope to continue playing even after graduating,” he said.
Promotion to the First League offers Dingani Bookshop players a pathway to higher competition and potential selection into the Matabeleland Tuskers, one of Zimbabwe’s top domestic sides.
