The International Cricket Council (ICC) is deeply saddened by the passing of former Zimbabwe women’s cricketer and international umpire Sarah Dambanevana.
Dambanevana, who has passed away following a brief illness, represented Zimbabwe as a fast bowler before transitioning into officiating, where she established herself as one of the country’s pioneering female match officials. Her journey from international cricketer to umpire reflected her enduring commitment to the game and her determination to break new ground for women in cricket.
She became the first female umpire from Zimbabwe to join the ICC Development Umpires Panel in 2022 and received her first ICC appointment at the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup in January 2023.
Dambanevana made her international umpiring debut in the Kenya versus Botswana women’s T20I on 2 September 2023 in Gaborone, Botswana and through her strong performances, progressed steadily until she was selected to officiate at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the United Arab Emirates.
At 36 years old, she had officiated in 72 senior international matches, including 10 men’s T20Is, 14 women’s ODIs, and 48 women’s T20Is.
Dambanevana’s last match was a T20I between Ireland and Thailand on 1 February 2026, during the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Global Qualifier held in Nepal.
ICC Chairman, Mr. Jay Shah said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Sarah Dambanevana. Sarah’s journey from representing Zimbabwe on the field of play to making history as an international umpire was an inspiration, and her achievements helped pave the way for more women to pursue careers in cricket officiating. Her contribution to the game will be remembered with great respect, and she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. On behalf of the ICC, I extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and the Zimbabwe cricket community during this difficult time.”
The ICC extends its deepest sympathies to Dambanevana’s loved ones and to Zimbabwe Cricket at this time of profound loss.
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