Tanzania’s new cricketing home ready for international action
The new facility is set to host ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Challenge League B 2026 and support the growth of cricket in Tanzania
The International Cricket Council Chairman Jay Shah officially inaugurated the Tanzania Cricket Association’s (TCA) brand new TCA Arena in Dar es Salaam on Sunday, marking a significant milestone for the development of cricket in the country.
The landmark ceremony brought together ICC Board Directors, senior government officials and representatives from Tanzania’s wider sporting ecosystem, with the new venue set to play a central role in the country’s cricketing future.
The inauguration comes just days before Tanzania hosts the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Challenge League B 2026 from 8 to 18 August, with the TCA Arena serving as the principal venue for the competition.
Speaking at the inauguration, ICC Chairman Jay Shah highlighted the importance of the new facility and the progress made by the Tanzania Cricket Association.
“The inauguration of the TCA Arena is a significant milestone for cricket in Tanzania and demonstrates what can be achieved through vision, commitment and strong collaboration.
“The progress made by the Tanzania Cricket Association is remarkable. TCA have shown great ambition and determination in developing a modern cricket facility while continuing to expand participation, strengthen its workforce and create better opportunities for players across the country.
“The TCA Arena represents an exciting future for cricket in Tanzania and the wider African region. It will provide an important platform for Tanzania to host international cricket, develop its players, coaches and match officials, and inspire more young people to become involved in the game.
“The ICC will continue to work alongside Tanzania and its other Members to enhance cricket infrastructure, build local capability and ensure that the opportunities available through ICC programmes are used to create sustainable growth.”
The journey towards the completion of the TCA Arena began in October 2024, when the University of Dar es Salaam allocated land for the project. A groundbreaking ceremony followed in April 2025, with construction beginning the following month after extensive site clearance and ground preparation.
The venue was completed in July 2026, providing Tanzania with a high-quality facility capable of hosting ICC pathway events and international competitions.
Beyond hosting matches, the TCA Arena is designed to serve as a hub for player development, coach and umpire education, talent identification, grassroots participation and community cricket programmes.
Tanzania Cricket Association Chairman Dr B.S. Sreekumar described the inauguration as a defining moment for the sport in the country and acknowledged the partnerships that made the project possible.
“The inauguration of the TCA Arena is a defining moment for cricket in Tanzania. This facility is far more than a cricket ground; it represents a vision for the future of our sport and demonstrates what can be achieved through strong partnerships, commitment and belief.
“We are proud to provide our players, coaches and future generations with a world-class home for cricket, while creating new opportunities to host international competitions and inspire more young Tanzanians to embrace the game. On behalf of the Tanzania Cricket Association, I extend my sincere appreciation to the International Cricket Council, the University of Dar es Salaam, the Government of Tanzania, our sponsors, partners, contractors, staff and everyone whose dedication has made this dream a reality.”
The stadium’s first major assignment will come this month when Tanzania hosts the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Challenge League B 2026.