The Buffalo City Metro has thrown its weight behind a bid to host the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, with the council on Monday approving a R20m boost to upgrade the Buffalo Park Stadium. With millions of rands in economic spin-offs expected should the city host matches in the global showpiece, councillors from across the political spectrum were, for a change, united in backing the proposal. The funding will be used to upgrade the Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium to meet international standards set by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
The World Cup is scheduled to be hosted across several South African cities, as well as Namibia and Zimbabwe, between October and November 2027. Though the allocation was not included when councillors approved the 2025/2026 municipal budget in May, mayor Princess Faku told council that provision would be made through the 2025/2026 mid-year budget adjustment. After Faku tabled the report, councillors also approved the use of the stadium — which is owned by the metro but leased to Border Cricket — as a potential World Cup venue.
The legacy of such an event will not only enhance the local economy, but also BCM’s reputation as a hub for world-class sport. In a report presented to council, city manager Mxolisi Yawa described the Cricket World Cup as a “marquee event on the global cricket calendar”, saying it would attract thousands of players, media professionals and international visitors, with significant economic and cultural benefits. “The biggest beneficiaries would be the hospitality sector, followed by retail.” The decision follows engagements earlier in 2025 between Cricket SA, Border Cricket and the provincial department of sport, recreation, arts & culture, during which Faku committed the city to making the funding available.
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