Jay Shah inaugurates Tanzania's historic TCA Arena
International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah officially inaugurated the Tanzania Cricket Association's (TCA) newly built TCA Arena, marking a major milestone in the growth of cricket in the East African nation.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent figures from the worlds of sports, education and politics, including ICC board members, senior government officials and representatives from both national and international sporting organisations.
Joining Shah at the event were Professor William A.L. Anangisye, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dar es Salaam, National Sports Council Secretary-General Neema Msitha and Tanzania Cricket Association Chairman Dr B.S. Sreekumar.
The ceremony took place just days before Tanzania is scheduled to host the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Challenge League B 2026 tournament from August 8 to August 18, with the newly constructed TCA Arena serving as the main venue.
The project began in October 2024 after the University of Dar es Salaam allocated land for the development of the facility. A groundbreaking ceremony was held in April 2025 in the presence of ICC directors and representatives from several member nations.
Construction work started in May 2025, with large-scale land preparation and infrastructure development taking place over the following months. The project was completed in July 2026, enabling the venue to host international matches. ALSO READ: "Fight Will Continue": Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia to Challenge Brij Bhushan's Acquittal in Higher Court
The state-of-the-art stadium is expected to become an important centre for cricket development in Tanzania, providing facilities for international tournaments, coaching programmes, umpire training, talent identification and grassroots initiatives.
Congratulations to Cricket Tanzania on the opening of the Tanzania Cricket Arena – a landmark moment for cricket in Tanzania and across Africa.
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) August 3, 2026
It was an honour to officially inaugurate this terrific new facility, the first ICC-approved cricket arena in the country. pic.twitter.com/De0y5rOdUL
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Shah described the project as a significant achievement for Tanzanian cricket.
"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."
He praised the Tanzania Cricket Association for its efforts to improve cricket infrastructure and expand opportunities for players throughout 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."
Shah also reiterated the ICC's commitment to supporting the development of cricket infrastructure and strengthening the sport's ecosystem across member nations.
Tanzania Cricket Association Chairman Dr B.S. Sreekumar described the inauguration as a landmark occasion for cricket in the country.
"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."
He thanked the ICC, the University of Dar es Salaam, the Tanzanian government, sponsors, partners and staff members for contributing to the successful completion of the project. ALSO READ: THIS Ranji Hero Replaces Injured Jasprit Bumrah in India's Test Squad for Sri Lanka Tour
