The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially unveiled the brand identity and host cities for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, which will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia during October and November 2027.
The tournament marks the return of cricket’s flagship 50-over event to the African continent for the first time in 24 years, following the successful 2003 World Cup, Under the theme “Three Nations, One Heartbeat,” the tournament’s new visual identity celebrates Africa’s rich cultural heritage.
Inspired by the traditional African wire bowl, the brand symbolises unity, hospitality and community, while incorporating colours representing the host nations, including Namib Dune, Zimbabwe Chilli and Two Oceans.
The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 will showcase the very best of our three nations and demonstrate what can be achieved when countries unite behind a common purpose. The concept reflects the spirit of welcoming the world to Africa while celebrating the region’s rich cultural diversity and passion for cricket.
A total of 14 teams will compete in 57 matches under a new tournament format designed to deliver more competitive cricket. The competition will feature group stages, followed by a Super 7 round before the semi-finals and final.
South Africa will host matches in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Gqeberha, Bloemfontein, East London and Paarl, while Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls will represent Zimbabwe. Namibia will stage World Cup matches at the FNB Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek, giving local cricket fans the opportunity to witness the sport’s biggest event on home soil.
The announcement marks a significant milestone for Namibian cricket, with Windhoek set to welcome some of the world’s leading cricket nations as the country plays its part in hosting one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments.
The ICC expects the tournament to not only deliver world-class cricket but also showcase Southern Africa’s diverse cultures, warm hospitality and growing influence in the global game. The 2027 tournament will introduce a new three-stage competition format designed to create more competitive matches.
Teams ranked 12th to 14th will contest a Super Series, with the winner advancing to the main tournament. The remaining 12 teams will then compete in two groups of six before progressing to a Super Seven stage, culminating in the semi-finals and final.
With Namibia preparing to host World Cup matches for the first time, the tournament represents a historic opportunity to showcase the country’s cricket infrastructure and hospitality on the global stage while contributing to the continued growth of the sport across the region.
By Rudi Bowe
