Cape Town - Cricket lovers across the city are elated with the news that Cape Town has been named as one of the host cities for next year’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
The announcement was made by Cricket South Africa on Monday.
Local cricket fan Natascha Bracale said for Cape Town to be one of the host cities for the T20 World Cup is wonderful news.
“It highlights the incredible depth of talent we have. I hope we can host other international women’s sporting events in the future. T20 cricket is super exciting and keeps you hooked from start to finish. I love watching it live,” she said.
Another fan, Tanya Prinsloo, said she is excited that “our beautiful city is part of the T20 World Cup”.
“It’s amazing to have such an event right here at home and to be able to go watch it live. It’s important to have more women’s international events in Cape Town and South Africa. Not just women’s events, but all kinds of events. Our city has so much to offer and it’s so important for our tourism industry, especially after Covid-19,” she said.
Zeenat Isaacs said she feels ecstatic about the news.
“It’s imperative because it gives rise to the fact that women are actively involved in a new democracy in South Africa. What I enjoy about T20 cricket is the athleticism and enthusiasm of the players and the short time duration, coupled with the fast pace of the game,” she said.
This will be the first time South Africa will host the Women’s T20 World Cup and it will be the eighth edition of the event.
South Africa played hosts to the inaugural edition of the Men’s T20 World Cup in 2007, which was also the last time South Africa hosted a senior cricket World Cup.
Cultural Affairs and Sport MEC Anroux Marais said it is wonderful that Cape Town has been chosen as one of the host cities.
“Not only will it bring a heightened awareness of women’s sport, it will also mean an influx of visitors to our city. We are very excited to welcome the teams,” she said.
She added that there should be a bigger focus on the promotion and support of women’s sport in general.
“It’s great that the announcement tied in with Women’s Month but we believe that women’s sport should enjoy equal attention and support throughout the year,” she said.