LEGENDARY Zimbabwe wicketkeeper‑batsman and former captain Tatenda Taibu has been named the face of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, scheduled for Zimbabwe and Namibia next month.
The youngest Zimbabwean Test captain – who took the leadership reins at the age of 20 – was unveiled as tournament ambassador during the official launch and trophy unveiling of the ICC Under‑19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 at the Cresta Msasa Hotel in Harare yesterday.
Former Zimbabwe Test opener Tinotenda Mawoyo, who was director of ceremonies, waxed lyrical about his former skipper as he introduced him to the delegates, albeit in absentia.
“Ladies and gentlemen, every iconic sporting event needs a face – someone who embodies its spirit and its potential… his story is woven into the fabric of Zimbabwean cricket,” Mawoyo said.
“Born in Harare, he rose from humble origins to become one of our most celebrated players. At the 2002 ICC U19 Men’s CWC, he was named Player of the Tournament – to this day the only Zimbabwean ever to receive that honour.”
Taibu, who will be heading home in a few days’ time, became the youngest Test captain in the history of world cricket in April 2004. He represented Zimbabwe in 28 Tests, 150 One‑Day Internationals and 17 T20Is in an 11‑year international career.
“He excelled as a fearless wicketkeeper, a hard‑hitting batter and a leader whose passion for the game was unmatched. His influence did not end with retirement,” Mawoyo added.
“He helped establish the Rising Stars Academy, coached in Bangladesh, and most recently served as head coach of Papua New Guinea’s national men’s team, including at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
“From U‑19 prodigy to Test captain to global coach – his story captures the very essence of what this tournament stands for: opportunity, excellence and the belief that African talent can conquer the world.”
Taibu sent a video message that was beamed on the big screen, encouraging the future stars to play with freedom and enjoy the games.
“Firstly, I would like to congratulate all the players for working hard and making it into various teams that will be participating in this edition of the Under‑19 Men’s Cricket World Cup that’s going to be happening in Africa. I would also like to congratulate the Zimbabwe Cricket Board as well as the Namibian Cricket Board for hosting this edition of the World Cup,” Taibu said.
“I’m sure that preparations have already started at the grounds where the games are going to be played – Harare Sports Club, Queen’s Sports Club, Takashinga Sports Club, HP Ground, as well as the Windhoek Sports Club in Namibia.
“I would also like to extend my congratulations to Tanzania for making it into this edition of the World Cup.
“I’m sure it will do well. I would also like to congratulate Australia, the current holders of the World Cup, having won it in South Africa a couple of years back.
“I’m sure that the Under‑19 teams are going to be fighting hard to try and get the trophy away from you.”
He turned his attention to the players.
“Now to the players. My memory takes me back to where I also was part of the Under‑19 team, or actually, I was part of two Under‑19 teams.
“I was part of my Under‑19 team in 2000 in Sri Lanka, in the World Cup in Sri Lanka, as well as the Under‑19 team for the World Cup that was played in New Zealand,” he added.
He added: “In the latter, I got Player of the Tournament. So this brings good memories for me.
“I know that it is very important and you want to play well and you want to win. And for some of you, it’s the only Under‑19 World Cup that you play.
“I know you play hard and I know that a lot of you would want to use it as a trampoline to be able to go to the next stage. And so you should.
“However, that brings a bit of pressure. But make sure that you enjoy the game.
“You always play well when you enjoy your cricket. I know that you market yourself because by playing well, you’re marketing yourself. And it’s going to be covered so well because it’s going to be on the ICC website.
“But make sure that every game, though played hard, is going to be played in the right spirit of the game.”
He urged them to enjoy the African hospitality.
“Also, don’t forget to enjoy Africa, the warmth of Africa, the beauty of Africa, because you're also going to get into these two countries. I look forward to seeing you there.”
Hamilton Masakadza, a former Zimbabwe Test skipper, is the tournament director, while another former Test captain, Elton Chigumbura, is in charge of the Zimbabwe U19 cricket team as head coach.
