Fans Slam Zimbabwe Cricket for Using Madam Boss in U19 World Cup Advert

Fans Slam Zimbabwe Cricket for Using Madam Boss in U19 World Cup Advert

Zimbabwe Cricket has come under heavy criticism following the release of a promotional advert for the upcoming ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026, which features popular comedian and social media personality Madam Boss.

The tournament is set to be co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia from 15 January to 6 February, marking a major international cricket event for the region.

Also Read: “National Shame”: Fury Over Zimbabwe U19 Cricket Selection, Coltart Demands ICC Investigation

“Madam Boss on the Park!” — ZC Promotes New Campaign

Taking to its official X account, Zimbabwe Cricket shared the video advert and promoted it with an upbeat caption.

“Madam Boss on the park! Join her and thousands of fans as Zimbabwe comes alive for the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026!” the post read.

Fans Slam Zimbabwe Cricket for Using Madam Boss (Image Credit: X)

While the campaign appeared aimed at generating excitement and broad appeal, it quickly drew widespread criticism from cricket supporters.

Fans Question Choice of Brand Ambassador

Many fans expressed disappointment over the decision to feature Madam Boss, arguing that the comedian appeared unfamiliar with cricket and was an unsuitable choice for promoting a major international tournament.

Critics said Zimbabwe Cricket should have selected individuals with deeper knowledge of the sport, including former players, die-hard supporters, or cricket-focused influencers.

Here are some of the comments:

@Sydzah1;

This is nonsense. Poor marketing from ZC.
Rubbish, get someone who is knowledgeable about the game, someone who commands respect within the game, kwete kutiunzira ma small house enyu

@tinomabwe;

You need to be serious as an organisation. Whoever came up with this idea and whoever approved it must be sacked immediately.

@Millionairebay;

Suppose the international community is going to see this. Is this how you want Zimbabwe to be portrayed? Have you looked at how sporting is promoted in SA?

Surely you can not be serious.

@ernestmac54;

What nonsense is this?

From the way she is holding the bat like some hockey stick to ‘pass the ball’ after spinning around and calling it a score?

This is a very cringe worthy clip and poorly thought out unscripted freestyle whose budget could have yielded better.

The second hand embarrassment im feeling right now goes right through my bones.

@iambeth1103;

This thing of making all adverts skits is now irritating. We are tired of this trash, we can do better as a nation honestly . Vanhu venyu vemarketing vakatogara pasi and thought yeah this is it?