The Harare Sports Club’s location – opposite an official government building called Zimbabwe House – ensured that authorities were alerted quickly. They put out the fire before it could do damage to the stands.

On Wednesday morning, inspections were done at the ground to ensure that it was safe for spectators and then it was given the green light. The venue has seen packed crowds since the end of Covid-19 restrictions, with interest in the national men’s team at an all-time high. Zimbabwe’s tournament opener against Nepal last Sunday was sold out, with some being turned away at the gate. Their match against Netherlands on Tuesday was well-attended despite it being a weekday. It is expected that Saturday’s clash against West Indies – the most anticipated of the group – will be a packed house.

In total, three more group matches, four Super Six games and the final, on July 9, are still to be played at Harare Sports Club. The two teams that contest the final will also qualify for this year’s ODI World Cup.