Harare Sports Club

About the ground

Harare Sports Club is the home of Zimbabwean cricket and one of the most pleasant grounds in Africa. Surrounded by trees and lying next to the Royal Harare Golf Club, it has a garden-party feel, with spectators spread across grass banks and a clubhouse that has seen decades of history. Zimbabwe played their first Test here in 1992.

The ground also hosted matches at the 2003 World Cup, and a sell-out crowd backing the home side makes for a warm and vocal atmosphere.

Key CWC 2027 matches

All four matches at Harare Sports Club are in the group stage. The highlight is Zimbabwe v Australia on 15 October, a day/night game starting at 12:30 local time, which will give the co-hosts a chance to take on one of the tournament favourites in front of their own fans.

Four days later, on 19 October, Zimbabwe face Pakistan with a 10:00 local start.

England and New Zealand also play here, each against a qualifier, so supporters of those sides may want to plan a Harare stop.

Getting there

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) is about 15 km from the ground. The ground is close to the city centre, so it is easy to reach by taxi or by a ride-hailing app where available. Ask your hotel for a recommended, reputable taxi company if you are unsure.

Organisers may arrange shuttles or other match-day transport for the tournament, so check official transport plans closer to the time.

Where to stay

The northern suburbs, including Avondale, Borrowdale and Mount Pleasant, are popular with visitors, offering hotels, lodges and guesthouses within a short drive of the ground. There are also established hotels in and around the city centre, some within reach of the ground.

Match-day tips

October is typically one of the hottest and driest months in Harare, and the sun at the city’s elevation is strong, so sun cream, a hat and water are a must. The rains often begin around November, bringing afternoon storms, but most matches here fall before then.

Check the official stadium rules for bags and prohibited items. Payment arrangements in Zimbabwe can be complicated: US dollars are widely used, small change can be scarce and card acceptance varies. Bring a supply of small-denomination US dollar notes and check the latest advice before travelling. Keep valuables discreet, use reputable taxis at night and follow your government’s travel advice.

Beyond the cricket

Mukuvisi Woodlands, close to the city, offers walks and a chance to see wildlife without travelling far. The National Heritage Site of Domboshava, a short drive out of town, has granite hills and ancient rock art. Lake Chivero Recreational Park, south-west of Harare, is another popular day trip.