Story by Josephine Mugiyo, Diplomatic Correspondent
PRESIDENT Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa has commended the Zimbabwe national cricket team, the Chevrons, for raising the country’s flag high at the ICC T20 World Cup, saying they showcased sporting prowess as true ambassadors of the country’s resilience.
Guaranteed automatic qualification to the 2028 T20 World Cup, the Chevrons were in great company this Wednesday as the President praised them for a job well done when he hosted the team at State House in Harare.
“The Chevrons showcased sporting prowess and were true ambassadors of Zimbabwe’s national character of resilience and an inherent warrior spirit. As a team, you brought great honour to our motherland, Zimbabwe. Through your actions on and off the field, you were able to positively profile ‘brand Zimbabwe’ in the eyes of the world.”
The President said the victory over Australia during the tournament was a defining moment for the country.
“The historic victory over Australia stands out as a defining moment in the Chevrons campaign. It was a victory that captured the imagination of the cricketing world and re-ignited national pride here at home. The result sent a strong message that Zimbabwe is capable of overcoming the most formidable teams. It reminded us all that greatness is always within reach. For young people in particular, the Chevrons are evidence that the highest levels of sporting success are attainable through hard work, discipline and determination.”
President Dr Mnangagwa spoke on how sport has managed to build bridges and foster unity.
“Zimbabwe has a rich sporting history, with sport being one of our effective tools of diplomacy. Through sport, we have built bridges, fostered unity and projected a message of peace, cooperation, and mutual respect. Zimbabwe Cricket and the Chevrons have been one of the sporting codes at the forefront of sporting diplomacy.”
The team walked away with smiles as they received tokens of appreciation from the Head of State. They were reminded to always fly the country’s flag high on and off the pitch.
“This gathering in your honour does not mark the end, but is a significant footnote in your exciting journey, as you take your place among the world’s great cricket-playing nations. I urge you to continue representing Zimbabwe with utmost pride and responsibility as you lift high our flag of Zimbabwe. Remain disciplined in your preparations for the tournaments ahead. Let your conduct, both on and off the field, consistently exemplify the unique values and traits that define us as a nation.”
President Dr Mnangagwa also rallied the country to ensure the development of sport is prioritised.
