The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially unveiled the 12 venues that will host the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, confirming cricket’s return to African soil for the first time in 24 years. The tournament, jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, will feature 57 matches and conclude at the iconic Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.
The 14th edition of the 50-over World Cup will be played under the theme “Three Nations, One Heartbeat”, embracing the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which emphasises unity and togetherness. The tournament will introduce a new three-stage format aimed at increasing competitiveness while enhancing the overall fan experience.
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The announcement was made during a ceremony in Johannesburg attended by several cricketing dignitaries and former players from across the region. South Africa will host the majority of the tournament, with eight venues selected across the country, while Zimbabwe will stage matches at three stadiums. Namibia, hosting its first-ever ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup matches, will welcome teams at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek.
The World Cup’s return to Africa marks a significant milestone, with the continent last hosting the tournament in 2003, when South Africa, Zimbabwe and Kenya jointly staged the event. Since then, the ODI World Cup has been held in the Caribbean, the Indian subcontinent, Australia, New Zealand and England.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah described the announcement as a landmark moment for international cricket.
“This marks an exciting milestone on the road to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027. The return of this prestigious tournament to Africa after 24 years is a landmark moment for cricket. We are confident that South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia will deliver an unforgettable event, showcasing the warmth, passion and rich diversity that make this region truly unique,” Shah said.
Johannesburg’s Wanderers Stadium, one of the world’s most iconic cricket venues, has been chosen to host the tournament final. The ground previously staged the memorable 2003 World Cup final, where Australia defeated India to lift the trophy.
Complete List of ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 Venues
South Africa
- Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg (Final)
- Centurion, Tshwane
- Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town
- Kingsmead Cricket Ground, Durban
- St George’s Park, Gqeberha
- Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein
- Boland Park, Paarl
- Buffalo Park, KuGompo City (formerly East London)
Zimbabwe
- Harare Sports Club, Harare
- Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
- Fale Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium, Victoria Falls
Namibia
- Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek
