Western Cape invests R15m in cricket venue upgrades for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027
Western Cape commits R15m to upgrade Newlands and Boland Park for the 2027 Cricket World Cup.
Image: Supplied
The Western Cape Government has committed R15 million to upgrade key cricket venues ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, with matches set to be hosted in the province.
Funding will support infrastructure improvements at Newlands Cricket Ground and Boland Park, two venues selected to host matches during the global tournament.
The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport signed Memoranda of Agreement on Thursday, 2 April 2026, with the Western Province Cricket Association and Boland Cricket to formalise funding for infrastructure upgrades.
Provincial Minister Ricardo Mackenzie said the province has a strong track record of hosting major international events.
“The Western Cape has shown that we are capable of successfully hosting World Cup events and we look forward to seeing the Cricket World Cup here next year,” Mackenzie said, referring to preparations for the 2027 tournament.
“These kinds of events help to support our local economy as they not only bring economic investment, but they also support job creation.”
The investment forms part of a broader push to position the province as a leading destination for global sport, with officials saying the event is expected to support tourism, infrastructure investment and job creation.
Corrie van Zyl, CEO of the Western Province Cricket Association, said the funding would help ensure Newlands Cricket Ground remains ready to host international cricket.
“This investment strengthens our ability to deliver a memorable World Cup experience for players, fans, and the broader community,” he said.
WPCA president Johannes Adams said partnerships between government and sporting bodies were critical to delivering successful events and ensuring long-term benefits.
Boland Cricket said its share of the funding would go towards a purpose-built player and match officials’ facility at Boland Park, describing it as a lasting investment in both the sport and the local community.
The inclusion of Paarl as a host venue reflects efforts to spread the benefits of major events beyond Cape Town, bringing international exposure and infrastructure upgrades to regional centres.
The 2027 tournament, hosted by the International Cricket Council, will be played across South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia in October and November.
For the Western Cape, the upgrades form part of ongoing preparations to ensure facilities meet international standards while leaving a lasting legacy for cricket in the province.