Sarah Dambanevana, a former fast bowler and umpire for Zimbabwe, died on Monday in Harare at the age of 36. She had been receiving hospital care since having a medical procedure in March, according to a statement issued by Zimbabwe Cricket.
On September 2, 2023, Sarah Dambanevana made her senior international umpiring debut. She went on to officiate at a number of significant competitions. She participated in the historic all-female panel of match officials for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the United Arab Emirates and the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 in India and Sri Lanka.
Sarah Dambanevana died on Monday in Harare at the age of 36
She officiated in the final between India and England at the 2023 Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa, which was one of the major turning points in her career. Sarah Dambanevana’s assignment made her the first woman from Zimbabwe to officiate a World Cup final.
She officiated 63 matches during her senior international umpiring career, including 10 men’s T20Is, 11 women’s ODIs, and 42 women’s T20Is. She further established her reputation in the sport by participating in both domestic and international youth cricket competitions. She joined the ICC Development Panel of Umpires in 2022.
Prior to becoming an umpire, Sarah Dambanevana played for Zimbabwe from 2009 to 2014. An important chapter in her relationship with Zimbabwean cricket was marked by her participation in the nation’s 2011 World Cup Qualifier campaign.
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Tavengwa Mukuhlani, chairman of Zimbabwe Cricket, honored Dambanevana and acknowledged her contributions to the game as an umpire and player.ZC chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani was quoted by Cricinfo as saying, “Sarah served Zimbabwe with distinction, first as a player and then as an umpire whose ability earned her a place on the world stage. “It was a moment of great pride for our nation and cricket community to see her stand in a World Cup final.
She demonstrated to young Zimbabwean women that they can succeed at the top levels of the sport, even in positions where there had previously been few opportunities. Through her successes, she created opportunities and inspired others to follow their own goals. Her commitment, professionalism, and desire to support others’ development will live on in our memories. Our cricket family is saddened by her passing, but those who follow in her footsteps will be motivated by the example she set.”
