Cricket South Africa (CSA) has officially unveiled the Local Organising Committee Board (LOCB) for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, placing former finance minister Trevor Manuel at the helm as Independent Chairman.
The announcement marks a major step in preparations for the first Cricket World Cup on African soil in 24 years. Manuel, who previously spearheaded South Africa’s economic reforms and national development plans, brings leadership experience and strategic discipline that CSA believes will help deliver a world-class tournament.
A Powerful Team Behind the Event
Manuel will be supported by a diverse board consisting of:
- 6 Independent Non-Executive Directors
- 5 Non-Independent Non-Executive Directors
- 3 Ex-Officio Members
This collective brings expertise spanning finance, education, law, and governance—skills deemed vital in pulling off a tournament of this magnitude.
CSA president Rihan Richards emphasised the importance of the occasion:
“It has been 24 years since the last ICC Cricket World Cup was held in Africa. The 2027 edition is a golden opportunity to attract new fans, deepen connections with our existing base, and showcase African innovation and cultural identity to the world.”
Expanding Cricket’s Footprint in Africa
In partnership with Zimbabwe and Namibia, CSA aims to use the tournament to grow cricket in both traditional and new spaces across Southern Africa. Part of this drive is rooted in CSA’s inclusivity and access strategy, taking the sport to communities that previously had little exposure to the game.
The competition will be spread across South Africa’s major cricket hubs: Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Gqeberha, Bloemfontein, East London, and Paarl. In total, South Africa will host 44 matches, while Zimbabwe and Namibia will host 10 games between them.
“A Vibrantly Different World Cup”
CSA Board Chairperson Pearl Maphoshe highlighted that the 2027 Cricket World Cup will not only be a sporting event, but a cultural experience:
“This will be a global, inspiring tournament that reflects the face of South Africa—diverse, inclusive, and united. Expect a vibrantly different atmosphere that offers players, fans, and partners something truly unforgettable.”
CSA says it has full confidence in the LOCB’s ability to deliver on its mandate and ensure the tournament leaves a lasting legacy for African cricket.
ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 LOCB Board of Directors
Independent Chairman:
- Trevor Manuel
Non-Independent Non-Executive Directors:
- Johannes Adams
- Yunus Bobat
- Vuyani Jarana
- Advocate Philip October
- Unathi Matthew Tshotwana
Independent Non-Executive Directors:
- Herman Bosman
- Nomfanelo Magwentshu
- Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka
- Ravi Naidoo
- Dr. Stavros Nicolaou
- Advocate Karrisha Pillay SC
Ex-Officio Members:
- Pholetsi Moseki – CEO, CSA
- Tjaart van der Walt – CFO, CSA
- Refentse Shinners – Public Affairs Executive, CSA
🔥 Africa is ready. 2027 will be more than just cricket—it will be a celebration of culture, unity, and sport on a global stage.