By Tendai Chisiri
Defending champions Rangers start title defence against Mbizo
HARARE – The race for domestic supremacy begins this weekend with the 2026/27 National Premier League (NPL) Men’s Super 40 season getting underway as 14 clubs from across Zimbabwe begin their quest for the coveted title.
The premier club competition, run by Zimbabwe Cricket, opens on Saturday, 11 July 2026, with defending champions Rangers launching their title defence away to Mbizo at Kwekwe Sports Club.
Another fiercely competitive campaign is expected, with clubs from Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Masvingo, Triangle, Kwekwe and Kadoma all in action.
Saturday’s programme also features Takashinga Patriots 2, last season’s third-placed side, traveling to Mutare Sports Club to face Strikers. At Masvingo Sports Club, Gladiators take on Scorpions.
The action continues on Sunday, 12 July with three more fixtures. An all-Amakhosi derby between Amakhosi 1 and Amakhosi 2 will be played at Bulawayo Athletic Club.
Last season’s runners-up Takashinga 1 face Queens Sports Club at Kwekwe Sports Club.
One of the standout matches of the weekend will see newly promoted Triangle make their NPL debut against Rimuka at Masvingo Sports Club — a historic milestone for the Lowveld side following their promotion to Zimbabwe’s elite club competition.
NPL Manager Edward Rainsford said all preparations were complete for what promises to be another exciting season.
“We are delighted that everything is in place for the start of what promises to be another highly competitive NPL season,” Rainsford said.
“The standard of club cricket continues to improve each year and we are looking forward to seeing the country’s leading clubs and players showcase their talent over the coming months.
“The NPL remains a vital part of Zimbabwe Cricket’s player development pathway, providing a platform for emerging talent to challenge themselves against quality opposition while helping strengthen the game across the country.
“We wish all the teams the very best for the season ahead.”
There will be little time to rest, with the second round scheduled for midweek. Six matches are set for Wednesday before the opening week concludes with another fixture on Thursday, as teams chase early-season momentum.
There will be little time to rest, with the second round scheduled for midweek. Six matches are set for Wednesday before the opening week concludes with another fixture on Thursday, as teams chase early-season momentum.
NPL MEN’S SUPER 40 – MATCHDAY 1 FIXTURES
Saturday, 11 July 2026
- Strikers v Takashinga 2 – Mutare Sports Club
- Scorpions v Gladiators – Masvingo Sports Club
- Mbizo v Rangers – Kwekwe Sports Club
Sunday, 12 July 2026
- Triangle v Rimuka – Masvingo Sports Club
- Amakhosi 2 v Amakhosi 1 – Bulawayo Athletic Club
- Queens v Takashinga 1 – Kwekwe Sports Club
Fans can follow the full 2026/27 NPL fixtures, live scores, standings and player statistics on the Zimbabwe Cricket mobile app, available free on iOS and Android.
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