HARARE – Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has condemned Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart, accusing him of targeting the organisation’s black administrators in what it describes as a racially motivated smear campaign.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, ZC alleged that Coltart has led a “relentless, racially driven” attack against the board’s leadership for years, primarily through social media and challenged him to either provide concrete evidence for his claims or stop making them.
“For too long, David Coltart has waged a relentless smear campaign against Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC), targeting its black administrators with baseless accusations lacking any credible evidence,” the statement read.
“It is time to call his bluff and expose his agenda for what it truly is.”
ZC accused the mayor of disguising his attacks as the voice of “concerned cricket lovers,” while allegedly propagating “a deeply divisive and damaging narrative.”
“His rhetoric threatens the unity and progress that ZC has painstakingly built over many years. Far from offering constructive criticism, his attacks are fuelled by personal bitterness and racial prejudice, aimed solely at undermining the integrity of selectors and administrators who operate under strict, merit-based and transparent processes.”
While ZC acknowledged that selection debates are normal in cricket, it said Coltart’s accusations of racism are not only unfounded but also dangerous.
“Selection is inherently subjective and often sparks healthy debate among cricket fans. However, Coltart’s persistent claims of non-existent racist policies are both dangerous and deplorable.
“Such accusations distract from the real work of developing Zimbabwean cricket and erode public trust in a fair, transparent system.”
The board challenged Coltart to “present concrete, factual evidence” or cease what they called “hollow posts.”
“Without proof, his accusations amount to bar talk — empty noise unworthy of serious consideration, but too dangerous to ignore given his political standing and influence.”
ZC also highlighted the historical context of cricket in Zimbabwe, noting its colonial legacy and the challenges faced by black players in gaining equal representation.
“To understand the gravity of Coltart’s attempts to destabilise ZC, one must appreciate the complex legacy of cricket in Zimbabwe. Introduced in 1890 during a segregated colonial era, the sport was long dominated by the white minority.
‘It was not until 1995 — over a century later — that a black player represented Zimbabwe at the national level.”
The board emphasized that since independence, Zimbabwean cricket has transformed significantly, with teams now more reflective of the country’s demographics.
“Our integration policy is designed to grow the game and keep it strong. Zimbabwe’s elevation to full ICC membership in 1992 was in part thanks to this commitment.
“Today, we remain dedicated to selecting the best players — regardless of skin colour — and to upholding the ICC’s Anti-Discrimination Code.”
ZC went further, attacking Coltart’s past record, including his time as Minister of Sport, accusing him of politicizing the game.
“His tenure was marked by divisive interference. This dates back to the 2003 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, when he urged the international community to boycott Zimbabwe, undermining the ICC’s principle of separating sport from politics.”
Citing his involvement in the black armband protest by players Andy Flower and Henry Olonga, ZC claimed Coltart helped precipitate the freeze in cricket relations between Zimbabwe and England — a freeze that lasted over two decades.
“Thanks to pressure from Coltart and his ilk, England refused to play in Harare, triggering a long-standing diplomatic and sporting rift.
“It took 23 years for bilateral ties to be restored — a breakthrough achieved only in May 2025 with a historic one-off Test at Trent Bridge, the result of years of patient diplomacy.”
ZC accused Coltart of trying to rewrite history by portraying himself as a champion of Zimbabwean cricket.
“During the recent national tour to England, Coltart inserted himself into the spotlight, offering interviews and commentary, conveniently ignoring his role in the crises that crippled Zimbabwe cricket.”
The statement also referenced Coltart’s past as a Rhodesian police officer and questioned the sincerity of his earlier apology for supporting a discriminatory regime.
“The irony is profound: a former Rhodesian police officer, now posing as a white liberal saviour, spreading a toxic, race-obsessed narrative.
“His selective outrage — only when white players are overlooked — and his celebration of only white players’ achievements betray the true nature of his agenda.”
ZC defended its recent achievements, including hosting high-profile tours by South Africa and New Zealand, and reiterated its full compliance with anti-discrimination policies.
“ZC rejects division. We reject politicisation. And we categorically reject Coltart’s cynical campaign to destabilise the sport.”
In conclusion, ZC called on the cricketing community and the public to support unity and progress.
“Our cricket is a shared heritage belonging to every Zimbabwean who plays, supports and loves the game — not to divisive politicians clinging to a bitter past.”
Coltart was yet to respond at the time of publication.
