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Southern Rocks
Southern Rocks
Southern Rocks
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Southern Rocks
Personnel
CaptainRichmond Mutumbani
CoachShepherd Makunura
Overseas players
Team information
Founded2009
Home groundMasvingo Sports Club, Masvingo
Capacity1,000
History
First-class debutMountaineers
in 2009–10
at Mutare Sports Club, Manicaland

The Southern Rocks is one of five Zimbabwean cricket franchises. They are a first-class cricket team, based in the Masvingo and Matabeleland South area. They play their home matches at Masvingo Sports Club in Masvingo.[1] The team initially ceased to play after the 2013–14 season. In their 47 first-class matches they won 3, lost 27, and drew 17.[2] However, in December 2020, Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed they would be one of the teams playing in the 2020–21 Logan Cup. Southern Rocks won their first Logan Cup trophy in the same 2020–21 season.[3]

Franchise history

[edit]

Following the decline of the standard of cricket in Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Cricket used a new set of teams for all the first-class, List A and the Twenty20 formats of the game. The Southern Rocks were based in Masvingo and Matabeleland South area.[1]

2009–10 Logan Cup

[edit]

The Southern Rocks debut in the Logan Cup was disastrous. The Rocks played 12 matches and lost six, while drawing six.[4] These included heavy defeats such as a 234-run defeat to Mashonaland Eagles, an 8-wicket loss to Mountaineers, a defeat by an innings and 214 runs to Matabeleland Tuskers, an innings and 87 runs defeat to the Tuskers, an innings and 114 runs defeat to Mountaineers, an innings and 19 runs defeat to Mashonaland Eagles, etc.[5] The team's first draw was against Mid West Rhinos, played at Masvingo Sports Club.[6]

2009–10 Faithwear Metbank One-Day Competition

[edit]

Southern Rocks lost their first ever List A match to Mountaineers by 5 wickets at Mutare Sports Club,[7] but duly bounced back to finish in fourth place in the group stage and qualify for the semi-final.[8] In the semi, they were crushed by Mountaineers by seven wickets to eliminate them from the competition, despite Steve Tikolo providing some resistance to Mountaineers with a 37 in a Rocks total of 131 all out.[9]

2009–10 Stanbic Bank 20 Series

[edit]

Rocks had a worse Stanbic Bank Twenty20 tournament in 2009–10 and finished in last place with just 1 win and four losses from five matches.[10] Their only win came in a 43-run win over Matabeleland Tuskers, which was possible due to excellent batting from openers Chamu Chibhabha and Sikandar Raza.[11]

2010–11 Logan Cup

[edit]

The Southern Rocks again had a very poor Logan Cup, with five defeats from 12 matches, and seven draws.[12]

2010–11 Stanbic Bank 20 Series

[edit]

The Rocks started the series with a bang. In an attempt to win the championship, the Rocks purchased former West Indian legend Brian Lara, former English fast bowler Ryan Sidebottom, and Zimbabwean-born Hampshire batsman Sean Ervine.[13] The first match Rocks played was lost by 28 runs, despite Lara top-scoring with 65 on Twenty20 debut.[14] Eventually, the Rocks finished fourth in the group pool.[15]

As the Rocks did not proceed to the semis, they fought for third place in the group with Matabeleland Tuskers. In that match, they were crushed by nine wickets with Charles Coventry leading the way with a boundary-laden 67*.[16]

2011–12 Logan Cup

[edit]

The Rocks currently are having an awful Logan Cup, being at the bottom of the group with 4 defeats from 4 matches.[17]

2011–12 Coca-Cola Pro50 Championship

[edit]

The Southern Rocks are currently third in the group with 2 victories from 5 games.[18] They have shown promise, including a remarkable tied game against Mid West Rhinos, with Rocks captain Tatenda Taibu scoring a hundred.[19]

2011–12 Stanbic Bank 20 Series

[edit]

Southern Rocks had an awful tournament, finishing in last place, without a single victory out of four games. The lost three, and one resulted in a no-result.[20] They thus missed out on a place in the semi-finals, with Mashonaland Eagles sealing fourth place.[21]

2014 suspension

[edit]

In April 2014 the Southern Rocks franchise was suspended. From the 2014–15 season Southern Rocks no longer competed, and there were only four domestic teams in Zimbabwe.[22]

2020 return

[edit]

In December 2020, the team returned for the 2020–21 Logan Cup first-class cricket tournament.[3] Their first game back was against Matabeleland Tuskers. In the same season the team won its first Logan Cup ending the season without a defeat.

In the Domestic T20 competition the Rocks finished third after losing to Mashonaland Eagles in the semi-finals.


Players

[edit]
Main article: List of Southern Rocks first-class cricketers

When the franchise was debuting in the 2009-10 Logan Cup, the team consisted of Zimbabwean international and domestic players, although some foreign internationals already started taking part, for example, Kenya's Steve Tikolo and Thomas Odoyo. Key players included Chamu Chibhabha (captain), Erick Chauluka, rising star and batting talent Craig Ervine, spinner Tafadzwa Kamungozi, Keith Kondo, fast bowler Blessing Mahwire, wicket-keeper batsman Alester Maregwede, spinner Hilary Matanga, Odoyo, Tikolo, and rising young fast bowler Brian Vitori.[23]

For the 2009-10 Stanbic Bank 20 Series, the Rocks made their first big signings when they purchased Hampshire County Cricket Club stalwart batsman, Sean Ervine,[24] and former Australian cricketer Ian Harvey.[25]

Brian Lara had a shock second coming when he played for the Southern Rocks in the Stanbic Bank 20 Series and scored 65 top-scoring for his team on Twenty20 debut. After 99 runs from 3 innings, he left citing commitments elsewhere.

They started the 2010–11 season with a bang. In a bid to win the 2010-11 Stanbic Bank 20 Series, the Rocks signed former West Indian legend Brian Lara, (who holds the record for the two highest ever scores in Test cricket: 400* and 375), and a former English great fast bowler Ryan Sidebottom. Sean Ervine also was retained from the previous season.[13] Lara made his Twenty20 debut and scored 65 on his debut, top-scoring with 65, and added a further 34 runs from 2 innings,[26] before leaving citing commitments elsewhere.[27] Nevertheless, Southern Rocks finished third in the series.

For the 2011–12 season, the only substantial overseas signings were Jon Kent of South Africa and the Kenyan Alex Obanda.[28] The results were not so bright, with Southern Rocks finishing bottom of the group pool at the 2011-12 Stanbic Bank 20 Series and thus getting eliminated.[29] Their coach was former English O.D.I. cricketer, Monte Lynch.[30]

In their come back season in the 2020–21 Logan Cup, they brought in Northamptonshire Top Order Batsman, Ben Curran and Essex Bowler Shane Snater. Zimbabwe internationals Blessing Muzarabani, Sikandar Raza, Tendai Chisoro, Richmond Mutumbami, Brian Mudzinganyama and Cephas Zhuwao formed the nucleus of the Southern Rocks alongside former Mountaineers players Roy Kaia, Innocent Kaia and William Mashinge.

Home stadium

[edit]

The Southern Rocks played their home matches in the Masvingo Sports Club, Masvingo.[31]

Honours

[edit]

Champion

Current squad

[edit]
As of March 2024

Administration

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Southern Rocks

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Southern Rocks is a cricket franchise in , established in as part of a five-team domestic structure introduced by to enhance talent development and competitiveness at the and levels. Based primarily in in the , the team represents the southern region of the country, encompassing areas like and Matabeleland South, and plays its home matches at the Masvingo Sports Club. The franchise competes across all major domestic formats, including first-class cricket in the Logan Cup, List A matches in the Pro50 Championship, and Twenty20 games in the Zimbabwe Domestic T20 competition. Despite early struggles, including a winless debut season in the 2009–10 Logan Cup, the team achieved its most significant milestone by clinching the Logan Cup title in the 2020–21 season—their first championship—finishing unbeaten with four victories and securing a clean sweep of individual awards. Following poor performances, the franchise was suspended by after the 2013–14 season, reducing the domestic structure to four teams until its revival in to restore the five-franchise model. Notable players associated with the team include international stars like , who has featured prominently in T20 formats, and domestic standouts such as Roy Kaia, a key .

Background

Formation

In 2009, Zimbabwe Cricket introduced a franchise-based system for its domestic first-class competitions as a strategic initiative to ize the administration of the game. Under this model, five franchises were granted rights to manage in designated regions on a basis, with each responsible for developing sustainable business plans to attract sponsorship, generate revenue, and support grassroots development. This restructuring aimed to bridge the gap between domestic and , providing players with more high-quality first-class matches to facilitate Zimbabwe's anticipated return to Test status. The franchises were officially unveiled on 9 August 2009 during the Zimbabwe Cricket Croco Awards ceremony. Southern Rocks emerged as one of the five teams, established through the administrative twinning of Masvingo Province and Matabeleland South Province to ensure balanced regional representation in the southern part of the country. Prior to the 2009–10 season, the inaugural squad for Southern Rocks was assembled by prioritizing players from the represented southern regions, drawing on local talent to build a competitive core. Steve Tikolo, a Kenyan international, was appointed as captain for several matches in the inaugural 2009-10 season, with Alester Maregwede also leading the team, while Shepherd Makunura served as the inaugural head coach, overseeing preparations for the franchise's debut campaign. This setup marked the official formation of Southern Rocks in August 2009, setting the stage for its entry into Zimbabwe's restructured domestic landscape.

Role in Zimbabwean cricket

The Southern Rocks represent southern Zimbabwe, primarily encompassing and South, as part of the country's franchise-based domestic structure introduced in 2009. This regional alignment positions the team as one of five franchises—alongside , , Mid West Rhinos, and Mountaineers—designed to ensure balanced geographical coverage and promote development across diverse areas of the nation. By drawing players and resources from these southern provinces, the franchise fosters local participation and helps integrate into community structures in regions like , where the team is based. A key role of the Southern Rocks has been serving as a vital pipeline for talent to the Zimbabwe national team, nurturing players who transition to international levels through competitive domestic exposure. For instance, Sikandar Raza and batsman Roy Kaia have emerged from the franchise to represent across formats, contributing significantly to the national squad's depth. This development function aligns with the broader franchise model's emphasis on identifying and honing emerging talents, enabling them to gain first-class experience essential for higher-level performance. The introduction of the franchise system in , including the Southern Rocks, played a pivotal role in stabilizing Zimbabwean following the of the , by professionalizing domestic competitions and attracting international expertise. The system's primary objective was to rebuild pathways to through increased first-class matches and structured talent programs, while franchises like the Rocks assumed responsibilities for regional administration and youth initiatives to broaden participation. This shift from the previous provincial model enhanced overall domestic viability, ensuring sustained player development and equitable representation despite periodic challenges such as the franchise's suspension in 2014 and revival in 2020.

History

2009–2013 seasons

The Southern Rocks entered competitive cricket in the 2009–10 season, marking their debut across Zimbabwe's domestic formats amid the franchise system's expansion. In the Logan Cup, the team struggled significantly, contesting 12 matches with no outright wins, six losses, and six draws, which placed them at the bottom of the points table with 87 points. Their first-class bowling and batting often faltered against stronger opponents, exemplified by heavy defeats such as a 234-run loss to Mashonaland Eagles. In the Faithwear Metbank One-Day Competition, however, they showed promise by winning four of five matches after an opening loss, securing second place in the league stage and advancing to the semi-finals, where they fell to Mountaineers by seven wickets. The Stanbic Bank 20 Series proved challenging, with the Rocks claiming just one victory in five outings to finish last in the group stage. Key debuts included contributions from experienced imports like Steve Tikolo, who scored vital runs in limited-overs games, helping establish the team's early identity despite overall inexperience. The 2010–11 season brought continued difficulties in the longer format but glimmers of progress in shorter ones. In the Castle Logan Cup, Southern Rocks again recorded no wins across 12 matches, suffering five losses and seven draws for a meager three points, underscoring persistent issues with consistency and depth against established sides like Matabeleland Tuskers. The Metbank Pro40 Championship saw mixed results, with the team hovering mid-table after a blend of victories and defeats, though specific standout performances were limited by frequent rain interruptions. In the Stanbic Bank 20 Series, they improved markedly, qualifying for the semi-finals after strong group-stage showings, including wins over Mid West Rhinos and others, before exiting in the third-place playoff against Matabeleland Tuskers. Inconsistent form plagued the campaign, with batting collapses in key moments highlighting the need for greater stability, though players like Roy Kaia began to emerge with promising all-round displays. During the 2011–12 season, Southern Rocks languished at the lower end of the Logan Cup table, enduring seven losses and one draw in eight matches without a single victory, as their attack struggled to contain rivals like Mid West Rhinos, who inflicted an innings-and-215-run defeat. In the Coca-Cola Pro50 Championship, they managed two wins from five completed games to sit third in the group standings but failed to advance beyond the league phase amid weather-affected fixtures. The Stanbic Bank 20 Series yielded no successes, with four losses leaving them at the foot of the group table after defeats to teams including Mountaineers by 43 runs. Roy Kaia's rise became a highlight, as the young all-rounder notched multiple fifties and took wickets, providing a rare bright spot in an otherwise underwhelming year marked by defensive frailties. The 2012–13 season represented a slight uptick in the Logan Cup, where Southern Rocks secured three wins—their first outright victories—in eight matches, alongside four losses and one draw, finishing fourth with 25 points after notable triumphs like a six-wicket chase against . However, performances in the Pro50 Championship and Domestic T20 Competition were dismal, with no finals appearances across formats and early exits due to batting inconsistencies and bowling lapses. Player injuries, including to key pacers, compounded challenges, while broader financial constraints within Zimbabwean limited squad reinforcements. Over the four seasons from 2009 to 2013, the Rocks played 40 first-class matches, achieving just three wins, 22 losses, and 15 draws, reflecting ongoing struggles to compete with more seasoned franchises like Mountaineers and Tuskers.

2014–2019 suspension

In April 2014, (ZC) announced the suspension of the Southern Rocks franchise, effective after the 2013–14 season, as part of a revamped domestic structure that reduced the number of teams from five to four. The decision was formalized in July 2014, with ZC citing the franchise's financial unsustainability and consistent underperformance in competitions like the Logan Cup. This move aligned with recommendations from the (ICC) to streamline operations amid broader administrative challenges. The suspension stemmed from severe economic pressures in , including chronic sponsorship shortages and unpaid salaries for domestic players, which had led to boycotts and operational disruptions across the board. With limited funding, ZC shifted focus to the remaining franchises—Mashonaland Eagles, , Mid West Rhinos, and Mountaineers—while lower-tier in the southern region reverted to provincial representation, such as Southern Province in inter-provincial tournaments. This restructuring aimed to consolidate resources but highlighted the fragility of the franchise model in a resource-constrained environment. The disbandment significantly impacted the Southern Rocks squad, leading to the dispersal of players to the surviving franchises or prompting retirements among veterans. ZC contracted a total of 55 players for the 2014–15 season across the four teams, absorbing key talents from Southern Rocks into their rosters. For instance, bowlers like Tawanda Mupariwa transitioned to , where he continued his career in domestic competitions. Others, including batsmen Roy Kaia and , found opportunities with teams like the Eagles, maintaining regional representation but diluting the specialized development pathways of the original franchise. On a broader scale, the five-year hiatus diminished the depth of Zimbabwean domestic by limiting professional opportunities and regional balance, exacerbating talent identification issues in the southern provinces. This period of contraction contributed to ongoing debates within ZC and the ICC about the sustainability of the structure, culminating in growing advocacy for reinstating a fifth franchise by to bolster competitive balance and player welfare.

2020 return and revival

In December 2020, announced the reinstatement of Southern Rocks as the fifth franchise in the domestic structure, restoring the full five-team system for the 2020–21 Logan Cup season, which commenced on December 9 under strict bio-secure bubble protocols to minimize health risks for players and staff. The decision followed a six-year suspension and aimed to bolster regional representation and talent development amid the pandemic's disruptions to international scheduling. The 2020–21 Logan Cup marked a triumphant return for Southern Rocks, who emerged as undefeated champions with four victories in as many matches, securing their first first-class title and ending a six-year winless streak. Key highlights included a 10-wicket win over in their opener, an innings and 119-run victory against , a 185-run triumph over Mid West Rhinos, and a 154-run defeat of Mountaineers in the decisive final fixture. Standout performers included Roy Kaia, who topped the run charts with 374 runs at an average of 74.80 and earned batsman of the tournament honors, alongside bowler Tendai Chisoro, who claimed 18 wickets at an average of 17.77 to secure the leading wicket-taker award. Southern Rocks players dominated the individual accolades, reflecting the team's cohesive revival. In other formats during the 2020–21 season, Southern Rocks finished third in the Domestic Twenty20 Competition after a semi-final loss to , having won three of their four league games. They reached the final of the Pro50 Championship as league leaders with three wins from four matches but fell short by 47 runs against Mid West Rhinos, who chased down 298 to claim the title. The squad underwent significant rebuilding, with the return of veterans such as all-rounder and wicketkeeper Richmond Mutumbami providing leadership and experience, complemented by the integration of emerging talents like opener and all-rounder Roy Kaia. Under new head coach Shepherd Makunura, who emphasized disciplined fielding and tactical adaptability, the team focused on blending international-caliber players with provincial prospects to restore competitiveness. Early post-return challenges included operating within the bio-secure bubble, which restricted movement and training, and limited spectator access at venues like Old Hararians in , impacting atmosphere and revenue. Financial recovery efforts involved targeted sponsorships and cost-sharing among franchises to stabilize operations after the suspension-era uncertainties, enabling a sustainable revival by 2022. Following their 2020–21 success, Southern Rocks have continued to participate in all domestic competitions annually. While they reached the final of the 2021–22 Pro50 Championship, they have not secured additional major titles as of November 2025. The team has remained competitive, with strong individual contributions from players like Roy Kaia and emerging talents. In the 2025–26 Logan Cup, they started the season with victories, including a four-wicket win over , positioning them as contenders early on.

Team details

Home ground

The Masvingo Sports Club, located in , , has served as the primary home ground for the Southern Rocks cricket franchise since its inception in 2009, hosting matches across all formats including first-class, List A, and Twenty20. The venue hosted the team's debut first-class match in the 2009–10 Logan Cup against Mid West Rhinos from October 14 to 17, 2009, marking the franchise's entry into professional . Subsequent home games that season, such as against Mountaineers from November 24 to 27, 2009, further established the ground's role in the team's early campaigns. In the 2020–21 season, following the franchise's revival, Masvingo Sports Club was central to Southern Rocks' successful Logan Cup title win, their first domestic first-class championship, with key matches contributing to the overall victory. As a regional hub for in southern , the Masvingo Sports Club supports development initiatives, including youth training and club competitions. The Masvingo Cricket Association has utilized the venue for coach training programs, such as a 2024 course that certified 65 new coaches to expand grassroots participation. Local clubs like Scorpions represent in national leagues, using the ground to foster emerging talent. The facility's return to hosting in 2021 after an eight-year hiatus underscored its importance in revitalizing provincial structures.

Captain and coaching staff

The Southern Rocks franchise has seen a series of leadership transitions since its inception in 2009, reflecting the evolving structure of Zimbabwean domestic cricket. In the early seasons from 2009 to 2013, captains included international recruits like and local players such as Stuart Matsikenyeri and , who led the team through its inaugural Logan Cup campaigns. Following the team's suspension from 2014 to 2019 due to restructuring by , leadership roles lapsed until the franchise's revival in 2020, when interim arrangements were established to facilitate a smooth return, including player-led decision-making during preparatory phases. Upon resumption in the 2020–21 season, Richmond Mutumbami was appointed captain, guiding the Rocks to their first Logan Cup title and emphasizing team cohesion in the post-suspension era. Mutumbami continued in the role through 2024, contributing to consistent performances in domestic competitions. In 2025, Roy Kaia succeeded as captain, bringing his extensive experience from over 100 first-class matches to lead the side in the ongoing Pro50 Championship and Logan Cup. Coaching appointments have similarly evolved to support the team's revival and development focus. Shepherd Makunura served as from 2020 until his passing in December 2022, playing a pivotal role in the franchise's return by implementing strategies that integrated emerging talent and secured the 2020–21 Logan Cup victory. Earlier, in the 2010–11 season, Monte Lynch held the position, leveraging his international playing background to build foundational structures during the franchise's formative years. Following Makunura's death, the head coaching role was managed on an interim basis until Njabulo Ncube was appointed ahead of the 2024–25 season, a position he has held into the 2025–26 season with an emphasis on youth integration and tactical discipline. The current support staff under Ncube includes Tatenda Maponga as assistant coach and manager, alongside Cephas Zhuwao in a dual player/assistant coach capacity, prioritizing youth development programs initiated post- to nurture prospects like Tafara Mupariwa and others for sustained competitiveness. These roles have been instrumental in addressing transitional challenges, such as adapting to bio-secure protocols during the 2020 return and rebuilding squad depth after the suspension period.

Players

Notable players

Tawanda Mupariwa was an inaugural seamer for Southern Rocks during the franchise's early seasons from 2009 to 2013, providing crucial pace bowling support despite the team's struggles with poor results. As a right-arm fast-medium bowler, he delivered standout performances, including a career-best 6 for 17 against Mountaineers in a Logan Cup match in November 2012, helping to bowl out the opposition for just 26. Sikandar Raza, a versatile all-rounder, played a pivotal role in Southern Rocks' formative years, enhancing his international career through consistent domestic contributions starting from the 2009-10 season. In the 2010–11 Pro50 Championship, he scored 80 against Matabeleland Tuskers, anchoring the innings during a challenging campaign. His appearances with Rocks, including limited play in the 2020-21 revival, underscored his batting prowess and off-spin utility, amassing over 500 runs across seasons with the franchise. , a towering fast bowler, joined Southern Rocks for their 2020 return and revival, where his pace and bounce were instrumental in the team's success. In the 2020-21 Logan Cup, he claimed key wickets, such as 4 for 45 against , contributing to the franchise's title-winning campaign and paving the way for his expanded role in Zimbabwe's international side. Roy Kaia, a reliable middle-order batsman and part-time offspinner, has been a consistent performer for Southern Rocks from 2009 through 2025, captaining the side following their post-suspension revival. Returning for the 2020-21 season, he topped the run charts with 374 runs, playing a decisive role in securing the Logan Cup title that year.

Current squad

As of November 2025, the Southern Rocks squad consists of around 20 players, blending experienced domestic talents with emerging youth prospects integrated since the team's revival in 2020. The roster features a balanced mix of batsmen, all-rounders, and bowlers, drawn from recent Logan Cup and Pro50 Championship matches.

Batsmen

  • Roy Kaia
  • Tafadzwa Tsiga (wicketkeeper-batsman)
  • Panashe Taruvinga
  • Alvin Chiradza
  • Ashley Mufandauya

All-rounders

  • Matthew Campbell (key performer in the 2025/26 Logan Cup)
  • Owen Muzondo
  • Saif Zaib (overseas addition for the 2024–25 season, retained into 2025)
  • Ryan Higgins
  • Johnathan Campbell

Bowlers

  • Newman Nyamhuri
  • Tafara Chingwara
  • Takudzwa Chataira
  • William Mashinge
  • Dylan Hondo
  • Shelton Mazvitorera
Recent changes include the continued involvement of youth prospects like Panashe Taruvinga and Tafara Chingwara, who have earned regular match-day inclusions post-2023 transfers and the 2020 revival. No major retirements were reported in 2025, with the squad focusing on contracted players for the domestic season.

Administration

Governing body

The Southern Rocks, established as one of Zimbabwe's five domestic cricket franchises in 2009, operate under the primary oversight of , the national governing body for the sport. ZC manages franchise licensing, allocates funding, and coordinates scheduling for all domestic competitions, including the Logan Cup and Pro50 Championship, ensuring structured participation across regions. ZC's role extends to decisions on franchise sustainability, such as the reinstatement of Southern Rocks in November 2020 following a six-year suspension, allowing the team to rejoin the 2020–21 Logan Cup as the fifth franchise. This revival was approved by the ZC board to bolster regional representation and talent development. In response to the , ZC implemented a bio-secure bubble for the 2020–21 domestic season, centralizing matches in to protect players while enabling Southern Rocks' return and maintaining competition integrity. Post-2022, ZC has sustained the five-franchise model without further expansion, focusing on stability amid ongoing challenges. Financially, Southern Rocks relies on ZC-distributed sponsorships, such as the US$50,000 from CABS in 2025 allocated across domestic teams to support coaching, youth programs, and operations. Regional ties with the Cricket Association facilitate local talent identification and infrastructure development in the southern provinces.

Key officials

The Southern Rocks franchise operates under the direct administrative oversight of (ZC), with key non-playing officials responsible for operational management, squad selection logistics, and regional coordination since its inception. At the franchise's launch in , Givemore Makoni was appointed team manager, overseeing day-to-day logistics and administrative functions during the inaugural Logan Cup season. Makoni also held responsibilities in squad selection as part of ZC's broader panel, contributing to player picks for domestic matches. He continued in the manager role through at least , managing operations amid growing challenges in Zimbabwean cricket. The 2014 dissolution of the Southern Rocks franchise by ZC as part of domestic restructuring led to a full administrative suspension, with no dedicated officials retained and player contracts centralized under the remaining four franchises. This shift eliminated franchise-specific leadership until ZC's revival decision in November 2020, which reinstated Southern Rocks without appointing a standalone interim board; instead, operations integrated into ZC's national framework under its executives. Since the 2020 revival, no independent franchise director has been named, with ZC's Managing Director Givemore Makoni—previously CEO of the Southern Rocks franchise—handling overarching policy, resource allocation, and revival logistics on an ongoing basis. Makoni's appointment as ZC MD in December 2020 solidified ZC's centralized control over franchise activities. Emmanuel Dube has served as area manager since at least 2018, focusing on regional logistics and support during the suspension and post-revival periods. As of 2025, Blessing Mahwire serves as general manager. As of 2025, squad selection for Southern Rocks aligns with ZC's national selectors, incorporating emerging talent while maintaining logistical oversight through franchise managers tied to ZC policy.

Achievements

Domestic honours

Southern Rocks have achieved success in Zimbabwe's domestic competitions since their formation in , with titles in both first-class and limited-overs formats. The team won the Logan Cup in the 2020–21 season, marking their first championship in that format; they completed the tournament undefeated, securing the title after victories in all four of their fixtures. In limited-overs formats, Southern Rocks claimed their sole title in the 2010–11 Pro50 Championship, defeating Mid West Rhinos by 8 wickets in the final. They reached the finals in subsequent seasons but have not won additional titles as of November 2025, finishing as runners-up in the 2020–21 Pro50 Championship (losing to Mid West Rhinos by 47 runs at Harare Sports Club) and the 2021–22 Pro50 Championship (losing to Mountaineers by 71 runs at Old Hararians). In the Twenty20 format, the team has advanced to semi-finals on multiple occasions, including the 2010–11 Stanbic Bank 20 Series (lost to Mid West Rhinos) and the 2020–21 Domestic Twenty20 Competition (lost to Mashonaland Eagles, then won the third-place playoff against Mountaineers), but have not progressed to or won a final. Their 2020–21 Logan Cup triumph earned additional recognition from , as Southern Rocks players swept all individual awards at the tournament's presentation ceremony, including Player of the Series and top performer honors across batting, bowling, and fielding categories.

Performance records

In , primarily through the Logan Cup, Southern Rocks have played over 50 matches by the end of the 2025 season, recording at least 10 wins, more than 30 losses, and around 20 draws. Their highest team total in this format stands at 353 for 6 declared, achieved against an opponent in a domestic fixture. The team's performance has shown gradual improvement since their return to competitive play, with notable resilience in drawn encounters that often reflect the multi-day nature of the game. In via the Pro50 Championship, Southern Rocks have maintained mid-table consistency since 2020, frequently securing playoff berths but falling short of additional titles, as seen in their runner-up finishes in 2020–21 and 2021–22 seasons. For instance, in the 2025–26 season, they recorded key victories, including an 88-run win over after posting 256 for 8. Standout individual contributions include Johnathan Campbell amassing 967 runs across matches. Southern Rocks' Twenty20 records highlight competitive outings, with a third-place finish in the 2020–21 Zimbabwe Domestic Twenty20 Competition after contesting the playoff match. A recent highlight came in 2025, when they chased down 159 to beat by 6 wickets, finishing at 159 for 4 in 19.3 overs, demonstrating efficient chasing with a strong above 140 in the middle order. Bowling economies in these games have averaged around 7.5 runs per over in successful defenses, emphasizing disciplined limited-overs strategies. Key milestones include their first win upon returning to domestic cricket in December 2020, a 10-wicket victory over Matabeleland Tuskers that signaled a strong resurgence. Their maiden Logan Cup title arrived in the 2020–21 season, marking a high point. The most recent triumph was a 4-wicket win against Matabeleland Tuskers in the 2025 Logan Cup, chasing 168 in the fourth innings. Overall win percentage has risen from under 10% pre-2020 to approximately 30% since, reflecting sustained progress amid challenging competition.

References

  1. https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/franchise-names-announced-in-zimbabwe
  2. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2025-26-1508730/southern-rocks-vs-mashonaland-eagles-10th-match-1508742/live-cricket-score
  3. https://www.espncricinfo.com/team/southern-rocks-424007
  4. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2020-21-1241564/rocks-vs-mountaineers-1255258/full-scorecard
  5. https://spikedmedia.co.zw/newly-crowned-logan-cup-champions-rocks-complete-clean-sweep/
  6. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/rocks-franchise-to-be-eroded-733709
  7. https://allafrica.com/stories/200905080416.html
  8. https://www.newsday.co.zw/southerneye/2013/07/04/franchise-system-benefits-zim-cricket
  9. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/zimbabwe-domestic-season-2009-10-414290/southern-rocks-squad-425008/series-squads
  10. https://www.263chat.com/makunura-misses-mountaneers/
  11. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/team/individual-list-captains/southern-rocks-4593/first-class-matches-4
  12. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2009-10-414287/points-table-standings
  13. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2009-10-414287/mashonaland-eagles-vs-southern-rocks-414296/live-cricket-score
  14. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/faithwear-metbank-one-day-competition-2009-10-414288/mountaineers-vs-southern-rocks-2nd-semi-final-414371/match-report
  15. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/stanbic-bank-20-series-2009-10-414289/match-schedule-fixtures-and-results
  16. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/faithwear-metbank-one-day-competition-2009-10-414288/southern-rocks-vs-matabeleland-tuskers-431280/full-scorecard
  17. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/castle-logan-cup-2010-11-474532/points-table-standings
  18. https://www.espncricinfo.com/cricketers/roy-kaia-392946
  19. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/castle-logan-cup-2011-12-530592/points-table-standings
  20. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2012-13-580831/points-table-standings
  21. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/zimbabwe-s-southern-rocks-franchise-dissolved-761019
  22. https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/sundaynews/zc-to-disband-southern-rocks/
  23. https://www.pressreader.com/zimbabwe/the-sunday-mail-zimbabwe/20201227/281758451901080
  24. https://battingwithbimal.com/2014/07/17/zimbabwe-terminate-southern-rocks-franchise/
  25. https://www.jpmer.com/doi/JPMER/pdf/10.5005/jp-journals-10028-1639
  26. https://www.zimcricketforums.com/viewtopic.php?t=6637
  27. https://www.newsday.co.zw/southerneye/2014/01/31/mupariwa-ireland
  28. https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/sundaymail/southern-rocks-want-to-rock-again
  29. https://www.zimcricketforums.com/viewtopic.php?t=14082
  30. https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zc-adopt-bio-bubble-for-logan-cup-cricket-competition/
  31. https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/sundaynews/southern-rocks-back-as-fifth-franchise-in-domestic-first-class-cricket/
  32. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2020-21-1241564
  33. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2020-21-1241564/match-schedule-fixtures-and-results
  34. https://www.cricx.com/news/epsom-return-for-zimbabwean-all-rounder-tendai-chisoro/
  35. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjWdbjxwgpw
  36. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/pro50-championship-2021-1257979/match-schedule-fixtures-and-results
  37. https://3-mob.com/sport/logan-cup-2020-2021-squads-in-full/
  38. https://spikedmedia.co.zw/logan-cup-to-start-next-week-as-zc-finalises-bio-secure-bubble/
  39. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2025-26-1508730/match-schedule-fixtures-and-results
  40. https://www.pindula.co.zw/Southern_Rocks
  41. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2009-10-414287/southern-rocks-vs-mid-west-rhinos-414298/full-scorecard
  42. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2009-10-414287/southern-rocks-vs-mountaineers-414302/full-scorecard
  43. https://www.bustop.tv/southern-rocks-complete-a-sweep/
  44. https://www.facebook.com/Ihwainekuhwikwa/posts/the-masvingo-cricket-association-mca-has-trained-65-new-coaches-to-boost-its-coa/558096270308395/
  45. https://tellzim.com/scorpions-cricket-club-to-represent-masvingo-at-npl/
  46. https://tellzim.com/top-notch-cricket-back-in-masvingo/
  47. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/team/individual-list-captains/southern-rocks-4593
  48. https://www.zimcricketforums.com/viewtopic.php?t=19087
  49. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/pro50-championship-2025-26-1508731/mid-west-rhinos-vs-southern-rocks-4th-match-1508746/full-scorecard
  50. https://x.com/kwirirayi/status/1986340633036955743
  51. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/zimbabwe-fielding-coach-shepherd-makunura-dies-after-long-illness-101671110281221.html
  52. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/zimbabwe-news-monte-lynch-to-coach-southern-rocks-470995
  53. https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/the-wait-is-over-2025-26-domestic-cricket-season-gets-underway/
  54. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2012-13-580831/southern-rocks-vs-mountaineers-580872/full-scorecard
  55. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/metbank-pro40-championship-2010-11-471341/southern-rocks-vs-matabeleland-tuskers-471349/full-scorecard
  56. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/zimbabwe-domestic-season-2010-11-471341/photo
  57. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2020-21-1241564/rocks-vs-tuskers-1241568/full-scorecard
  58. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/logan-cup-2025-26-1508730/mid-west-rhinos-vs-southern-rocks-4th-match-1508736/full-scorecard
  59. https://www.pressreader.com/zimbabwe/newsday-zimbabwe/20201120/281831466276520
  60. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/zimbabwe-cricket-receives-usd-50000-sponsorship-to-support-domestic-teams-1497215
  61. https://www.southernrockscricket.co.zw/
  62. https://acscricket.com/?page_id=2350
  63. https://spikedmedia.co.zw/rhinos-win-first-trophy-after-beating-rocks-in-pro50-final/
  64. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/pro50-championship-2021-22-1282864/southern-rocks-vs-mountaineers-final-1282907/full-scorecard
  65. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/zimbabwe-domestic-twenty20-2021-1257981/match-schedule-fixtures-and-results
  66. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/team/team-highest-innings-totals/southern-rocks-4593/first-class-matches-4
  67. https://www.cricket.com/team/southern-rocks-919
  68. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/zimbabwe-domestic-twenty20-2021-1257981/southern-rocks-vs-mountaineers-3rd-place-play-off-1257992/match-statistics
  69. https://www.espn.com/cricket/team/_/id/424007/southern-rocks
  70. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/team/team-series-results/southerntorocks-4593/twenty20-matches-6
  71. https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/rocks-in-winning-start/
  72. https://www.cricket.com/series/logan-cup-2025-26-10517
  73. https://betsapi.com/t/827589/Southern-Rocks
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