Sri Lanka were routed for 80 in 17.4 overs as Zimbabwe won the 2nd T20I by five wickets in Harare, leveling the series 1-1. Brad Evans and Sikandar Raza took three wickets each, and Zimbabwe chased 81 in 14.2 overs. The Harare pitch again offered early help for pace before bringing spinners into play. The result narrows Sri Lanka’s head-to-head lead to 6-2 and sets up a tense series decider.
Harare Sports Club – Everything You Need to Know
If you’re planning a visit to Harare or just curious about Zimbabwe’s top sports hub, you’ve landed in the right place. Harare Sports Club (often called HSC) sits in the heart of the city and serves as the go‑to spot for cricket, football, and a range of community events. Below you’ll find a quick rundown of its past, what you can do there today, and some handy tips for getting the most out of your visit.
A quick look at the history
Harare Sports Club opened its doors in the early 1900s when the country was still known as Rhodesia. It started as a modest field for British settlers to play cricket, but over the decades it grew into a national landmark. By the 1970s the club had a proper pavilion, floodlights, and a reputation for hosting international fixtures. When Zimbabwe became independent in 1980, HSC became the country's premier cricket venue and later added football pitches, a gym, and a swimming pool.
One of the most memorable moments happened in 1992 when Zimbabwe played its first Test match at HSC against Sri Lanka. The crowd’s energy was electric and the stadium’s intimate size made every run feel personal. Since then, the ground has seen legends like Andy Flower, Brendan Taylor, and many visiting stars from around the world. The club also hosts local leagues, school tournaments, and community festivals, keeping the vibe lively all year long.
What you can do at Harare Sports Club
Today, HSC is more than just a cricket ground – it’s a full‑service sports complex. Here are the main draws:
- Cricket matches: Check the fixture list for international Tests, ODIs, and domestic Logan Cup games. Tickets are usually sold at the gate or online through the Zimbabwe Cricket portal. Arrive early for the best seats; the ground’s capacity is around 12,000, so you’ll be close to the action.
- Football: The club’s football field hosts league games and occasional friendly matches. Look for “Harare Sports Club FC” in local sports news if you want a weekend game.
- Gym & fitness: Members can use the on‑site gym, which offers cardio machines, free weights, and group classes. A day pass costs about $5 USD, making it a cheap option for travelers who want to stay active.
- Community events: From music concerts to charity runs, HSC’s open spaces are booked for a variety of happenings. The schedule is posted on the club’s notice board and on their Facebook page.
- Food & drinks: The pavilion houses a café serving tea, coffee, and light snacks. On match days, you’ll find local vendors selling grilled meat, samosas, and cold drinks.
Getting there is easy – the club sits just a few kilometres from Harare’s city centre. Taxis, ride‑hailing apps, and the public bus route 14 stop nearby. If you drive, there’s a modest parking lot; just watch for a small fee during big events.
One tip that many first‑timers miss: bring a hat and sunscreen, even on cloudy days. The open stands get hot quickly, and the outfield can be dusty after rain. Also, if you’re a cricket fan, grab a program at the entrance – it gives you player stats, match history, and fun trivia that makes the experience richer.
Whether you’re catching a Test match, joining a morning jog, or just soaking up the lively atmosphere, Harare Sports Club offers a slice of Zimbabwe’s sporting spirit. Plan ahead, grab a ticket, and enjoy the buzz of one of Africa’s classic venues.
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