FROM battlegrounds to cricket fields, Africa's military and police forces are set to exchange guns, curfews, for a bat and ball contest as they battle it out in the inaugural Africa Defence and Police T20, slated to take place in Zambia.
This new cricket tournament aims to celebrate ties between military and police, is set to make its debut on the African sports scene.
The umpires' panel for the inaugural Africa Defence and Police T20 will constitute a unique blend of both army and police personnel, adding an extra layer of camaraderie and shared experience to the tournament.
Zimbabwean cricket administrator Crispen Tsoka, a member of the Zimbabwe national army, came up with the idea.
It will feature teams from across the continent.
The tournament aims to foster relationships between the military and police forces of Africa, promoting a spirit of unity and cooperation across borders. Zambia are set to host the inaugural tournament while Sri Lanka uniformed forces are waiting on the wings to play as a guest team.
The inaugural tournament will feature six teams, including Zambia Police, Airforce of Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone Police, Namibia Army, and South African Army.
The teams will compete in a group stage, followed by a knockout stage, with the winners advancing to the final.
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"The Africa Defence and Police T20 is more than just a cricket tournament - it's an opportunity for the military and police forces of Africa to come together, share experiences, and build relationships," Tsoka told Standard Sport.
"The tournament promises to deliver exciting cricket, while promoting a spirit of camaraderie and cooperation among the participating teams. Cricket enthusiasts across the continent are eagerly anticipating the excitement and drama that the tournament promises to deliver, we have learnt."
The tournament's head of umpires David Shawane aims to see the game growing globally.
"As umpires we are looking forward to grow the game of cricket and to have military umpires being recognized by ICC," Shawane said.
"We also intend to get the game of cricket to be played at the army military games which are played globally."
Tsoka added: "The success of the Africa Defence and Police T20 will depend on the support and participation of the military and police forces of Africa."
"As the tournament grows and develops, we are hopeful that it will attract more teams and participants, promoting a spirit of unity and cooperation across the continent."
