When Temba Bavuma and his team raised the ICC World Test Championship Mace at Lord’s in June, it was more than a sporting victory. It was a turning point in South Africa’s cricketing story – the first ICC trophy in 27 years and only the second in the nation’s history.
For the Proteas men, it was a moment of pride and redemption. For the country, it was a reminder of how sport has the power to heal, to unite, and to inspire generations. Now, that story comes home to Gqeberha this week.
The mace comes to the bay
On Wednesday, 24 September and Thursday, 25 September 2025, the Eastern Cape’s cricket-loving community will have the extraordinary opportunity to experience cricket’s most prestigious prize up close, as the Proteas bring their historic ICC Test Championship Mace to Gqeberha.
Over two unforgettable days, residents of the Bay and surrounding areas will be able to meet their heroes, see the coveted trophy, and become part of a celebration that belongs to every South African who has ever believed in the Proteas dream.
A trophy with global weight, a victory with local heart
The ICC Test Championship Mace has been the symbol of cricket supremacy since 2001. For a younger nation like South Africa, lifting it carries special meaning. It says to the world: despite our challenges, we can rise, we can compete, and we can triumph on the grandest stage.
This victory belongs as much to Gqeberha’s cricket lovers as it does to anyone else in the country.
Connecting to community legacy
South Africa’s cricketing heritage has always been deeply rooted in its communities, from the township clubs that nurtured hidden talent in spite of apartheid restrictions, to the schools and grassroots programmes that still shape tomorrow’s stars.
The Eastern Cape has contributed immensely to this legacy, producing world-class talent and passionate supporters who have stood behind the Proteas through triumph and heartbreak.
This Mace does not belong to one team, one province, or one generation. It belongs to everyone who has ever picked up a bat in a dusty field, cheered in the stands until they were hoarse, or believed in the Proteas dream.
More than celebration: A call to the future
The Mace Tour is not just about celebration; it is about inspiration. By bringing the trophy to Gqeberha, the Proteas hope to light the spark that will grow the next generation of cricketers from the Eastern Cape.
This is a chance for every child in Gqeberha to see that world-class greatness can begin anywhere – from backyard games to community clubs – and that they, too, can write the next chapter of South African cricket.
Captain’s message
Proteas captain Temba Bavuma reflected on the meaning of the tour. “This is not just our trophy. It is South Africa’s trophy. We lifted it, but it belongs to everyone who stood behind us, in villages, cities, and schools across the country. Sharing it with our people is the most important part of this journey.”
An invitation to Gqeberha
Cricket South Africa, the Proteas, and management invite all residents of Gqeberha and the surrounding Eastern Cape to come together, celebrate together, meet their heroes, and see the ICC Test Championship Mace for themselves.
“Our aim on this tour is to share this significant moment with as many fans as possible, whether they live in small towns, or large, whether from the centre of SA, or at the coast. This is a once-in-a-generation chance to see an iconic symbol of cricket’s highest honour up close – and to revel a victory that unites us,” said Public Affairs Executive, Refentse Shinners.
Ggqeberha Mace Tour Programme
Wednesday, 24 September 2025
17:30 – 18:30: Boardwalk Mall Photo Opportunity and Signing Session
Location: Boardwalk Mall, Gqeberha
Join the Proteas for an exclusive meet and greet session. Bring your cameras, get autographs, and take photos with the ICC Test Championship Mace and your cricket heroes.
Thursday, 25 September 2025
08:00 – 10:00: Captain’s Panel Discussion
Location: Grey High School, Gqeberha (invite only)
An inspiring morning session where young cricketers and fans can interact directly with Proteas leadership, hear their stories, and ask questions about the journey to cricket’s summit.
