Zimbabwe Cricket Mourns Sarah Dambanevana As Former International Umpire Dies At 36

Sarah Dambanevana Dies: Zimbabwe Cricket Pays Tribute To Trailblazing Umpire

Zimbabwean cricket is mourning the death of former international player and pioneering umpire Sarah Dambanevana, who died in Harare on Monday, 12 October 2026, aged 36. Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed her death, noting that she had remained in hospital since undergoing a medical procedure in March 2026.

Sarah Dambanevana Dies After Months In Hospital

Dambanevana had been receiving medical care for several months following the procedure earlier this year. Zimbabwe Cricket announced her passing and paid tribute to her contribution to the sport.

The cricket governing body said:

“Her passing leaves Zimbabwean cricket mourning a trailblazer whose dedication and achievements took her from representing her country as a player to officiating on some of the game’s biggest stages.”

Her death marks the loss of a figure who contributed to Zimbabwean cricket in two different roles, first as a player and later as an umpire.

Former Zimbabwe Women Cricketer Turned Umpire

Born on 26 May 1990, Dambanevana represented Zimbabwe Women between 2009 and 2014. She also featured at the 2011 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier.

She initially played as a fast bowler before moving into umpiring, where she continued to apply her knowledge of the game.

Zimbabwe Cricket described her journey as one shaped by dedication and a lasting passion for cricket.

A Lasting Contribution To Zimbabwean Cricket

Dambanevana’s career spanned international playing and officiating, making her a notable figure in the development of women’s cricket in Zimbabwe. Her death at 36 brings an end to a journey that began on the field and continued in the role of an official.