Zimbabwe will host matches at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027 after the International Cricket Council (ICC) officially unveiled the tournament's host cities and brand in Johannesburg this week.

The global showpiece, which returns to Africa for the first time in 24 years, will be jointly hosted by Zimbabwe, South Africa and Namibia in October and November 2027.

Zimbabwe will stage matches at three venues: Harare Sports Club in Harare, Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, and the newly constructed Fale Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium in Victoria Falls.

The announcement was made during the launch event, attended by senior cricket administrators, current international players and legends of the game from the three host nations.

Organisers also unveiled the tournament's official theme, "Make the Circle Bigger," a brand concept inspired by the traditional African woven bowl, which symbolises unity, hospitality and community. The campaign draws on the African philosophy of Ubuntu, emphasising togetherness and shared humanity as the region prepares to welcome teams and fans from across the world.

ICC Chairman Jay Shah described the launch as a major milestone on the road to the tournament.

"This marks an exciting milestone on the road to the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027. The unveiling of the host cities and the tournament brand signals the start of a journey that will unite fans around the world and build anticipation for one of our sport's biggest global events," said Shah.

He said the return of the tournament to Africa after more than two decades was a landmark moment for cricket and expressed confidence that the three host nations would deliver a memorable event.

ICC Chief Executive Officer Sanjog Gupta said the tournament would celebrate not only world-class cricket but also Africa's diverse cultures, people and sporting passion.

"The vibrant brand that was unveiled reflects the energy, ambition and spirit of the event, while every host city offers fans a unique opportunity to experience the warmth and diversity that make Africa truly memorable," Gupta said.

Local Organising Committee Board Chairman Trevor Manuel said the event would showcase the strengths of the three nations and demonstrate the benefits of regional cooperation.

"This is far more than the unveiling of a tournament brand and host cities; it is the moment Africa begins its invitation to the world," he said.

LOC Chief Executive Officer Qondisa Ngwenya said the tournament would belong to the whole continent and help inspire new generations of cricket fans.

"'Make the Circle Bigger' is a powerful expression of our ambition to inspire new generations, bring more people into the game and create an event that is inclusive, vibrant and unmistakably African," said Ngwenya.

The 2027 World Cup will feature 57 matches played across 12 venues. South Africa will host matches at eight stadiums, while Namibia will host games at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek.

The tournament will introduce a new three-stage format aimed at increasing competitiveness and enhancing the fan experience.

A Super Series involving the three lowest-ranked teams will determine the final side to advance to the main competition, which will then feature 12 teams divided into two groups. The top teams will progress to the Super Seven stage before the semi-finals and final.

Zimbabwe last hosted Cricket World Cup matches in 2003, when it co-hosted the tournament with South Africa and Kenya.