Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) announced on Monday that Sarah Dambanevana, a former fast bowler and international umpire from Zimbabwe, had died at the age of 36. The nation’s cricket governing body claims that Dambanevana had been having treatment in the hospital following a medical surgery in March prior to her passing.
On September 2, 2023, Dambanevana made her senior international umpiring debut. She subsequently officiated at a number of significant competitions. She was a member of the historic all-female panel of match officials for the Women’s T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates in 2024 and the Women’s ODI World Cup in India and Sri Lanka in 2025.
When the former cricket player officiated the summit match between India and England in the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2023, she became the first Zimbabwean to referee a World Cup final. Sarah Dambanevana was praised by ZC chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani for representing the nation as an umpire and player, and he said that she demonstrated to young Zimbabwean women that they belong at the top level of the sport.
ZC chairman said, “Sarah served Zimbabwe with distinction, first as a player and then as an umpire whose ability earned her a place on the world stage. Watching her stand in a World Cup final was a moment of immense pride for our cricket community and our country. She showed young Zimbabwean women that they belong at the highest levels of the game, including in roles where opportunities had long been limited.”
He further adds, “Through her achievements, she opened doors and gave others the confidence to pursue their own ambitions. We will remember her dedication, her professionalism and her willingness to help others grow. Her passing leaves a painful void in our cricket family, but the example she set will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.”
Dambanevana played for Zimbabwe from 2009 to 2014 before deciding to become an umpire. An important chapter in her relationship with Zimbabwean cricket was marked by her participation in the nation’s campaign at the 2011 World Cup Qualifier.
