Harare Sports Club Stadium in Zimbabwe, one of the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers 2023 venues, experienced a fire incident on Tuesday night. However, after thorough assessment and analysis by the ICC security team and Zimbabwe Cricket authorities, it has been determined that the stadium remains safe and suitable for hosting the forthcoming World Cup Qualifier tournament matches. The fire, which caused damage to a section of the stadium, did not affect the playing surface, ensuring that the scheduled matches could proceed as planned.
A video circulated on social media, capturing the flames and heavy smoke emanating from the affected area, particularly close to the stands. The blaze primarily engulfed the roof at Castle Corner, an area typically occupied by the Zimbabwe Cricket Supporters Union. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined, but it is believed that highly combustible materials on the open ground contributed to the rapid spread of the flames.
A video went viral on social media in which a section of Harare Sports Club is seen in flames. People witnessed heavy fire and smoke coming out of the stadium. The fire was also very close to the stands. Have a look at the video below.
Fire guts Harare Sports Club
— #FokusZW (@Fokus_zw) June 20, 2023
A section at the Harare Sports Club went up in flames today. The Harare Sports Club is currently hosting the ICC World Cup cricket qualifiers. pic.twitter.com/3bDPlz74KC
In collaboration with Zimbabwe Cricket authorities on Wednesday, the ICC security team conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the situation at Harare Sports Club Stadium. Following the assessment, the ICC has given the green light for the stadium to continue hosting the remaining matches of the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2023. This decision is a relief, as the venue is scheduled to host eight more matches, including the highly anticipated final on July 9.
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Despite the recent fire incident, the cricketing action at Harare Sports Club will continue as planned. On July 22, West Indies and Nepal are slated to face each other in the 9th ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2023 match. The stadium will also host eight additional games during the tournament, including key encounters leading to the final. With ICC’s clearance, teams and cricket enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing thrilling matches in a safe and secure environment.
