The 14th edition of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 will take place in October and November next year across South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. As anticipation builds, #ThePrideOfJozi is positioning itself at the heart of the action through a continued, flourishing partnership between Lions Cricket and the City of Johannesburg, supported by members of the WC2027 Local Organising Committee.
During a strategic engagement with Johannesburg City Manager Dr Floyd Brink and key executives of the City, alongside the WC2027 LOC, Lions Cricket CEO Jono Leaf-Wright emphasised that while preparations for the global showpiece were central to discussions, the collaboration itself stood out as a powerful force for progress.
“The purpose of the engagement was to align on planning and readiness ahead of the ICC World Cup, but what truly stood out was the shared vision and overflowing energy,” said Leaf-Wright.
“When you have a fully committed City powering you forward, it becomes a partnership that extends far beyond the boundary ropes.”
Lions Cricket and the iconic DP World Wanderers Stadium have long been synonymous with world-class cricket with capacity crowds; unforgettable sporting moments and rewriting the history books. The venue has hosted some of the greatest matches in the game’s history, including:
- The 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup Final between Australia and India (2003);
- The legendary “438 Game” between South Africa and Australia (2006);
- The Opening match as well as the Final of the ICC World Twenty20 (2007).
- SA20 Finals (2023 and 2025)
With fixtures for 2027 yet to be released, Leaf-Wright says that the DP World Wanderers Stadium is ready to host the tournament final once again.
“We strongly believe that the DP World Wanderers Stadium is the preferred venue of choice for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup Final and our team is wholeheartedly committed to delivering the greatest sporting spectacle this country has ever witnessed come October/November 2027.
By joining hands with the City of Johannesburg, we are ensuring that our global visitors, as well as our loyal fans from Johannesburg and the rest of the country, experience the very best of our City — where we work, we play and we thrive.”
As Johannesburg prepares to welcome the world, the partnership between Lions Cricket and the City stands as a bold statement of intent: a united vision to deliver capacity crowds, significant tourism impact and a world-class celebration of cricket on the global stage.
Dr Brink says that there’s tremendous pride in this partnership.
“The City of Johannesburg is proud to reaffirm its commitment to partnering with Cricket South Africa and Lions Cricket for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup in 2027. This event offers our city an extraordinary opportunity to showcase Johannesburg’s energy, diversity, and sporting excellence on the global stage.
Our teams are working closely with all stakeholders to ensure world class facilities, safe environments, and seamless coordination across infrastructure, transport, and tourism. More than a tournament, this partnership is an investment in local enterprise, youth development, and social cohesion.
Johannesburg stands ready to welcome the world. Together with Lions Cricket, we will deliver a Cricket World Cup that reflects our ambition, unity, and commitment to sustainable growth, leaving a proud and lasting legacy for all residents.”
With collaboration, shared vision and a deep commitment to delivering excellence, the DP World Wanderers Stadium is gearing up to play its part on the world stage, striding forth with the City of Joburg, Cricket South Africa and the ICC — ready to warmly welcome the cricketing world in 2027.
