By Varaidzo Matope

CAF stadium inspector Aloys Mpambara earlier today carried out a detailed inspection of Chahwanda Stadium in Kwekwe as the venue seeks to meet continental hosting standards ahead of the new season.

Mpambara, who is serving as a CAF Infrastructure Consultant, toured the facility, also known as The Heart Main Arena, examining critical areas including the playing surface, dressing rooms, safety features, media facilities and general stadium infrastructure. The visit is part of CAF’s routine compliance process to ensure venues meet the minimum requirements for hosting international and continental matches.

The inspection comes at a crucial time for PSL newcomers Hardrock FC, who have adopted Chahwanda Stadium as their home ground following their promotion to the top flight. The club is hoping the venue will receive the necessary approval to stage high-profile fixtures and avoid the need to use alternative venues outside the Midlands.

Officials believe a positive assessment would represent a major milestone for football development in Kwekwe and the wider Midlands province, potentially bringing elite domestic and continental action closer to local supporters while boosting the town’s sporting profile.

CAF is expected to provide feedback after reviewing the inspection findings, with any identified areas requiring attention likely to be addressed before final certification is considered.

The 2026 Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup will take place on March 14 at Troutbeck Resort in Nyanga, with organisers confirming growing international interest ahead of the continental event.

Event director Rick Fulton said more than 20 elite athletes from 14 countries have already registered, with further entries expected before the closing date.

“The competition will feature elite races alongside supporting multi-sport events,” said Mr Fulton

Zimbabwean triathlete Andie Kuipers is set to return to the elite women’s category after missing the 2025 edition, adding further local interest to the race.

Last year’s event attracted 343 athletes across all categories, and organisers are targeting at least 400 competitors for the 2026 edition as the race continues to gain prominence on the African triathlon calendar.

The Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup forms part of the Africa Cup series and has steadily grown in stature, drawing elite athletes while boosting sports tourism in Zimbabwe.

Speaking at the event, Emily Jesaya, the Deputy Minister of Sport and Recreation and Guest of Honour, praised the organisers for their professionalism and consistency.

“The government values the role of triathlon in enhancing Zimbabwe’s competitive appeal by attracting elite athletes and international visitors, while positioning the country as a reliable destination for high-quality sport,” said Hon Jesaya.

She added that she would like to see other sporting disciplines emulate the class, consistency and ability of Triathlon Zimbabwe to attract major sponsors.

The 2026 edition is expected to further cement Zimbabwe’s place on the continental triathlon map while contributing to the growth of sport tourism in the Eastern Highlands.

Zimbabwe have stunned the cricketing world with a sensational 23-run victory over tournament heavyweights Australia at the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, producing one of the most remarkable results in the competition’s history.

The triumph represents a defining chapter for Zimbabwe national cricket team, who rose to the occasion with a bold, confident display against one of the game’s most decorated sides.

After setting a challenging target, Zimbabwe backed it up with a composed and relentless bowling effort, keeping the Australians under constant pressure and ultimately shutting the door on any late comeback.

The result stands as one of Zimbabwe’s finest moments on the international stage and injects fresh belief into their World Cup campaign.

Scenes of celebration erupted across the country and among fans abroad as the Chevrons demonstrated they are capable of matching  and beating  elite opposition.

Beyond the points gained, the win reshapes perceptions: Zimbabwe are no longer simply participants, but genuine challengers in the tournament.

For Australia national cricket team, the defeat is a significant blow and adds new tension as the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 moves into a critical stage.