FOLLOWING his return to action on Saturday, CAPS United skipper Hardlife Zvirekwi has described his recovery as a miracle.

The 2016 Soccer Star of the Year was involved in a horrific car accident in March which led to the amputation of his left palm.

Since then he has been undergoing rehabilitation.

But on a chilly Saturday afternoon at Rufaro, the utility player returned to action three minutes before stoppage time against Harare City in his first game for the former champions this   season.

“It was a fantastic feeling to be back on the pitch. I was so happy the coach gave me the opportunity, had faith in me by fielding me again,’’ said Zvirekwi.

“I would like to thank everyone. The reception from the fans was crazy, it was a humbling experience.

“Everyone in the stadium welcomed me.”

But the Warriors defender revealed he didn’t believe he would play a competitive football match again.

He has been ever present at every game which CAPS United have played in his absence.

He also went into the dressing room to sharply criticise his teammates for letting the team, and the fans, down after a shock defeat at the hands of Mutare City Rovers.

“I didn’t expect to be back so soon hence it was a miraculous return and would like to thank God for that,’’ he said.

“During the rehabilitation process, even from the day I got amputated, I stayed positive, saw things in a different way from the manner others were seeing it.

“I had faith that God is still in the business of making miracles and with Him all things are still possible.

“It was not easy being on the sidelines and it took a lot of hard work, but I would like to thank my teammates and the coach for it was not easy, but they guided me.

“My family also kept believing in me and supported me, I would also like thank them.

“I am still recovering and not yet hundred percent fit. I will give it my best. I will play a role in the last half of the season to help my teammates when given an opportunity play a role in matches.”

Zvirekwi says he hardly feels any pain now and has only been experiencing some pain during the cold spell which has been prevailing in the country.

Although CAPS United are currently fifth on the table, 14 points behind pacesetters and champions FC Platinum, Zvirekwi, who led the Green Machine to the league title at the end of the 2016 season, believes the championship race is still wide open.

“There is still a long way to go, the race is still (wide) open, in my own opinion, to any one of the teams in the top five although it might seem that champions FC Platinum are running away with it,” said Zvirekwi.

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By Takudzwa Chitsiga

Mushowani Stars continued with their fine form as they dismissed Golden Valley 2-1 in a Ruyamuro Service Stations Northern Region Division One League match. The Levison Selous-coached side have now gone for eight matches without defeat and have moved into third place.

Mushowani Stars are now trailing leaders Beta XI by three points and are tied on 31 points with Golden Valley.

Beta XI were handed a shock defeat at the hands of Banket United.

Cranborne Bullets also lost to Ngezi Platinum U-19 side to remain on 29 points.

Selous has transformed the Madziva side since taking over from Paul Chimalizeni who had failed to guide the club to the heights demanded by the owners.

“We are in our best form and we are expecting to continue in our next encounter,” said Selous.

“We will not be carried away by the win and we hope we will continue to be among the chasing pack,” said Selous.

Northern Region Results

Mushowani Stars 1, Golden Valley 0; Herentals U-20 1, Chegutu Pirates 1; Chinhoyi Stars 0, ZRP FC 1; Banket United 1, Beta XI 0; PAM United 3, Harare City Cubs 0; Trojan Stars 0, DZ Evangel 0; Blue Swallows 0, Karoi United 0; Ngezi Platinum U-19 2, Cranborne Bullets 1.

Northern Region Log

P W D L F A Pts

Beta XI 17 10 4 3 17 10 34

Mushowani stars 17 8 7 2 14 7 31

Cranborne Bullets 17 7 8 2 20 8 29

ZRP FC 17 8 5 4 19 13 29

PAM United 17 7 5 5 20 17 26

Chegutu Pirates 17 5 9 3 14 12 25

Banket United 17 6 5 6 14 12 23

Trojan Stars 17 6 5 6 16 20 23

Karoi United 17 6 5 6 9 13 23

Herentals U-20 17 4 8 5 20 16 20

Harare City Cubs 17 5 4 8 14 19 19

DZ Evangel 17 4 6 7 11 18 18

Ngezi U-19 17 3 7 7 13 18 16

Blue Jets 17 3 6 8 14 17 15

Alburaak 17 3 4 10 10 18 13

Chinhoyi Stars 17 2 6 9 12 30 12

Eastern Region Results

Tenax 1, Green Fuels0; Buffaloes 6, Masvingo United 1; Masvingo Pirates 2, Melfort 1; Prime Rangers 1, Renco Mine 0; Gaza Gunners 0, United Lions 0; Mwenezana 3, Gutu 2; Surrey Abattoirs 1, Bikita Minerals 1; Manica Diamonds 8, Zero One One 0.

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By Eddie Chikamhi

Former Dynamos striker Christian Epoupa is taking a cautious approach in his dealings with the Glamour Boys who are looking to lure him back to Zimbabwe. Epoupa left the country three months ago following a payment row with the Glamour Boys, but the new executive at the club has been pushing for his return.

His manager Gilbert Sengwe yesterday said negotiations were still continuing with the Harare giants and indicated the player needs assurances he will not get a raw deal again.

“Of course, Dynamos have indicated they want him back but we are still talking. It’s something that is not going to happen overnight. Remember the circumstances when this guy left?

“There were issues and I think these are some of the things that need to be looked into. But from our discussions I cannot rule out anything.

“He may come back but like I said it won’t be an overnight thing. There is also issues about his visa that needs to be applied for and it’s a process,” said Sengwe.

He was the club’s leading scorer with 12 goals as they took the title push to the line.

But the Glamour Boys have failed to replicate their form without him.

The Harare giants are currently 11th on the log standings with 21 points from 18 starts.

Lloyd Mutasa’s men were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw at home by Chicken Inn after they conceded a 90th minute equaliser at Rufaro in a game they had led for the better part.

Their former player King Nasama spoiled the day when he cancelled out Quality Kangadze’s 48th minute strike with a stunning 90th minute header.

DeMbare paid dearly for their decision to sit deep too early.

“I wouldn’t want to get into those issues because it involves the administration. But Epoupa is Dynamos at heart and it cannot be a surprise if he comes home,” said coach Lloyd Mutasa.

“We only have a few slots, probably two slots. When you have players on contract and you push them away and they don’t get contracts elsewhere it becomes a burden to the team.

“You also look at yourselves as a team whether you are able to look elsewhere because when you go out there you would want to get players who is probably better than what you have.

“It will be difficult for us to get one. But if we are lucky we may get one or two,” said Mutasa.

Lunga has been targeted by Supa Disk side Golden Arrows and is likely to leave during the current window.

“Devine is top-notch. He is definitely the best left-back in the country. It’s unfortunate that we will be losing him in weeks to come but we just have to move on and try and produce another Devine Lunga,” said Antipas.

The Gamecocks failed to capitalise on the slip up by the leading teams FC Platinum and Ngezi Platinum to reduce the gap between them.

“It’s difficult. If we had picked up maximum points we could say we are putting. But we gained a point and if you look at the points difference, it’s massive.

“The other two teams will definitely start picking up points very soon. All we are just doing is to try and play our game and hopefully create pressure on the top two,” said Antipas.

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Cape TOWN — Zimbabwe coach Peter de Villiers has thanked fans for their messages of support over the past two weeks.

Sport24

After losing 45-36 to Kenya in a 2019 Rugby World Cup qualifier on June 30, Zimbabwe travelled to Tunisia, where their preparation was severely hampered.

They encountered issues at passport control upon entry to the northern African country, before being forced to sleep on the streets due to their dissatisfaction with conditions at their hotel venue.

Images surfaced on social media of the team lying and sleeping on the streets, although the Tunisia Rugby Union hit back at Zimbabwe’s decision to abandon their hotel venue.

New accommodation was found, but Zimbabwe went on to lose 18-14 to Tunisia to leave their World Cup hopes hanging by a thread.

De Villiers took to Twitter after the tour and insisted that they were ready for the Tunisia game, despite the disruptions.

He also shared a video where he thanked Zimbabwean fans for their support of the team.

“Thank you so much for all your support. We are really inspired and draw energy from it,” he said.

De Villiers also heaped praise on the parents and wives of the players. “Thank you so much, they all needed it. They were treated badly, but you carried them through.”

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By Petros Kausiyo

Norman Mapeza has demanded an immediate response from his charges following FC Platinum’s rare home defeat by ZPC Kariba at Mandava last Saturday, their second loss of this season.

The champions will travel to the capital this Saturday for a lunch time date against Yadah at the National Sports Stadium in an encounter which will also be beamed live on ZTV.

FC Platinum have turned Mandava into a fortress and they had not lost a game at the venue since 2016 until Godfrey Tamirepi’s resurgent ZPC Kariba ended that fine run by upstaging them 2-1 last Saturday.

Struggling Bulawayo Chiefs are the only side to have managed a victory over FC Platinum so far this season — a 2-0 win at Luveve on April 21.

With nearest rivals Ngezi Platinum losing their fourth game on the bounce when they were shocked 0-1 by Herentals at the National Sports Stadium, FC Platinum could have opened a nine-point lead at the top with victory over ZPC Kariba.

Now Mapeza has demanded that his champions quickly restore “normal service”.

The former Warriors gaffer does not want to continue dwelling on the defeat by ZPC Kariba and challenged his troops to immediately move on and find their winning touch again.

“It’s a game of football and like I said before there will be times when we will lose games, but it’s how we react that counts,” he said.

“Credit to ZPC Kariba, they came with a plan which they executed well and we were just flat on the day.

“We need to just continue working hard, correct the mistakes that we made, we conceded from a set piece and for the goal, the offside trap was really organised, but we didn’t have the right communication at the back.

“So, we now need to move and focus on the game against Yadah, we have to keep working hard.”

The former Zimbabwe international also looks to unleash new striker Thomas Chideu, signed during the mid-season break, on 12th placed Yadah who have a knack of causing upsets.

Yadah had their confidence boosted by their 1-0 triumph over Bulawayo Chiefs at Luveve with midfielder Leroy Mavhunga’s goal, from the penalty spot, making the difference.

Chideu appears to be the only addition Mapeza will make to his ensemble in what promises to be a tougher second half of the season.

Apart from Ngezi Platinum, FC Platinum would have to shake off the challenge of Triangle, Chicken Inn, CAPS United and Harare City who all will have some say in the destiny of the title.

Mapeza has expressed satisfaction with the squad at his disposal with the likes of William Stima proving he can adequately cover for Warriors defender Kelvin Moyo, who is on Kaitano Tembo’s shopping list at SuperSport United.

The post Mapeza Demands Response appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

By Tadious Manyepo

All weekend Premiership fixtures have been moved forward by two hours as the league once again tries to avoid the powerful counter attraction provided by the World Cup matches.

Domestic top-flight matches normally start at 3pm.

However, last Saturday the matches got underway at 2pm as the league’s leadership sought to avoid a clash with the World Cup quarter-final tie between England and Sweden which started at 4pm the same day.

And, in the closing weekend of the global showcase where the tournament’s third-place play-off is scheduled for 5pm on Saturday and the final pencilled a day later, PSL fixtures have been moved by two hours.

Yadah, who beat Bulawayo City last weekend, will host leaders FC Platinum at the National Sports Stadium on Saturday.

High-flying Black Rhinos visit ZPC Kariba, who are high on confidence, after ending FC Platinum’s two-year unbeaten home run over the weekend.

The pick of the weekend fixtures will be at Baobab where Ngezi Platinum Stars, who have lost four games on the trot, have a date against Triangle.

Traditional giants CAPS United, Dynamos and Highlanders will all play on Sunday.

The Green Machine host giant killers Bulawayo Chiefs at the National Sports Stadium with Bosso entertaining Herentals while DeMbare visit Shabanie.

The move by the PSL has been welcomed by football fans.

Dynamos cheerleader Chris “Romario” Musekiwa hailed the domestic football leadership’s decision.

“The move by the Premier Soccer League is a very welcome one. Last week’s matches on Saturday kicked off at 2pm, but the time between the end of those matches and the kick-off time for the World Cup fixture on that day was not good enough,” said Musekiwa.

“As football supporters, we are glad our leaders have now adjusted the time between the end of our domestic fixtures and the kick-off timings for the two matches to be played this weekend.”

Fixtures

Saturday: Chapungu v Mutare City (Ascot 1pm); Bulawayo City v Harare City (Barbourfields 1pm); Yadah v FC Platinum (NSS 1pm); Ngezi Platinum Stars v Triangle (Baobab 1pm); ZPC Kariba v Black Rhinos (Nyamhunga 1pm).

Sunday: CAPS United v Bulawayo Chiefs (NSS 1pm); Highlanders v Herentals (Barbourfields 1pm); Shabanie v Dynamos (Maglas 1pm).

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By Percival Sizara

Scott Gray is expecting his Old Mutual Zimbabwe Under-18 rugby side to move a gear up as they face Blue Bulls Country Districts in their second game at the Coca Cola Academy Week at Paarl Boys High today.

The squad are in high spirits after edging SA LSEN 29-27 on Monday.

But Blue Bulls CD will definitely be a different ball game. They also had a close 27-22 win over Sharks CD. Gray is under no illusion that his team weren’t in their best shape against SA LSEN considering how they were stretched and forced to chase the game twice for victory. “After we did a review, a lot of players said ‘we didn’t play the best we can’. We missed a lot of opportunities to put the game away and win by a more comfortable margin.

“The boys confidence is there, they enjoyed the game and it’s amazing how you always enjoy the game when you win by a point or two but they are realistic with the fact that they didn’t play as well as they could have.”

However, Gray reckons the best thing they have done so far in the Academy Week was winning their opening game.

Although it’s not yet known which side will turn out today, what is known, though, is that the tempo and intensity in the Academy Week is increasing.

With this in mind, Gray anticipates his team to step it up against the Blue Bulls CD. “Obviously it’s a good start for us to get a win on the board. The boys fought very hard for the win. We can’t take away the fact that we have had a win; it’s a good start to the festival.

“It’s absolutely the most important thing to start with a win.

“Coming back from a loss is harder so the fact that we have got a win does make it easier to prepare for the next game but it means our next game will be tougher. “The winners will go and play someone else who won so it means will be a harder game for us and we will have to play much better for us to be able to compete.”

As per tournament rules, all players who didn’t play against SA LSEN will be in the starting XV against Blue Bulls CD.

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By Tadious Manyepo

Organisers of the UK-Versus-Africa boxing extravaganza have cleared the air surrounding the visiting team’s accommodation challenges in the country. The Kwese Sports and Kalakoda Promotions-sponsored fiesta is pencilled for Harare International Conference Centre on Friday night.

Team UK arrived in the country on Monday for the jamboree led by their captain Stacey Copeland who will take on South Africa’s Mapula Ngubane for the Commonwealth title.

But the much-hyped contest had its build-up blemished on Monday night after Copeland expressed dissatisfaction over their living conditions at a Harare hotel.

“We’re in Zimbabwe! 30 hours travel through three countries, my luggage hasn’t made it, we have no hot water, and my room has no lights but we’ve done a pads session, looked around the venue and we are here to win the title no matter what!

“Thanks to @ sportstoursint for our ace kit” read the post on Twitter.

The message drew mixed reactions and there were questions about how an international team could be put in a hotel where, as Copeland claims, had no water or power.

Kwese Sports confirmed the glitch but said everything was sorted out and Team UK were now readying themselves for the Friday event.

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THE Old Mutual Zimbabwe Under-18 side produced a clinical second half performance to comfortably see off the Blue Bulls Country Districts (CD) and maintain their winning run at the 2018 Coca-Cola Academy Week at Paarl Boys High yesterday.

BY DANIEL NHAKANISO IN PAARL, WESTERN CAPE
Old Mutual Zim U-18. . (15) 44
Blue Bulls CD U-18 . . . (12) 19

After a nervy 29-27 win against South Africa Learners with Special Education Needs (LSEN) side on Monday, the Old Mutual Junior Sables were eager to make a statement against a good Blue Bulls CD.

While in the opening match, they managed to just hang on for a crucial win, the Old Mutual Junior Sables were always in control of yesterday’s encounter despite scoring just three tries against two in the first half.

In fact, yesterday the Junior Sables significantly upped the tempo after the break, outscoring the Pretoria outfit by four tries to one for a confidence boosting win ahead of Saturday’s official Test match against fierce rivals Namibia.
Scott Gray’s charges dominated the scrums and breakdown battle, while minimising the errors which set the platform for the backs to terrorise the Bulls defence.

Old Mutual Junior Sables captain Matthew Oworu was named man of the match after leading his charges from the front with a dominant performance which yielded a brace of tries.

The Churchill High School open side flanker was the first to cross the whitewash in the 13th minute before Victor Matarise slotted home the conversion.

Left wing Pride Gadzikwa, who also finished the contest with a brace then dived over for the Junior Sables’ second try in the 25th minute before Blue Bulls Country Districts responded with two tries in a space of four minutes through center Shane Bolton and winger Bronwin Arries to level the scores at 12-12.

A penalty by Matarise just before the buzzer restored the Junior Sables’ lead as Gray’s charges went to the break with a slender 15-12 lead.

Following a see-sawing opening half, the Junior Sables were far more clinical after the break, and it took just six minutes for centre Mufaro Chareka to stretch Zimbabwe’s lead with a try before Gadzikwa completed his brace with another converted try.

Zimbabwe managed two further tries from right wing and Nigel Tinarwo and Owuru before Blue Bulls CD scored a face saving consolation with minutes left on the clock.

Replacement flank David Boore, who was man of the match in the first half, however, ensured the Junior Sables maintained their 25 point lead with a late try to seal a convincing win.

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HARARE City have acquired highly-rated football striker, Ishmael Wadi from FC Platinum in a swap deal that saw Farai Edwin Madhanhanga move to the Zvishavane based side permanently.

BY TERRY MADYAUTA

The midfield workhorse Madhanhanga was loaned to FC Platinum at the start of the season, to reinforce the platinum miners’ squad for the Caf Champions League.

But it appears Harare City coach Mark Harrison, having managed to capture Moses Muchenje, who has been impressive this far, does not need another defensive midfielder anymore.

Instead, he has opted to strengthen the attacking department which has proved problematic for his improving team, with Wadi identified as the best men to end the scoring problems.

City confirmed the swap deal yesterday.

“Harare City has added more firepower upfront through a swap deal with FC Platinum for 26-year-old striker Ishmael Wadi,” the club said on their official Facebook account.

The deal could also prove valuable for FC Platinum as Madhanhanga has been impressive in recent time, earning himself a first team jersey in the star-studded team.

Meanwhile, Chapungu coach Rodwell Dhlakama has vowed his side will not be relegated, despite the team’s struggles this season which have seen them trapped in the murky waters, and are currently on 15th position, the relegation cut-off point.

“At this juncture we are working hard to avoid the dreaded chop. We believe in the players and though we might have fewer points on our tally, things will change for the better after the next five games. What I can assure the community is that we will avoid relegation and sooner we will be out of the relegation zone,” Dhlakama guaranteed.
Chapungu host fellow relegation struggler Mutare City on Saturday at Ascot Stadium.

“In terms of number points, I cannot be so sure but I can safely say that we are not relegation material and when we play Mutare City, we will beat them and make sure they remain at the bottom of the log. We have our own ambitions and considering that I was not with the team during the pre-season and normally it takes time for the players to understand the philosophy of the coach, but right now I am satisfied that everyone is geared to play to their fullest.”

The Gweru-based side has been busy in the transfer window, acquiring the services of former Harare City and Masvingo United midfielder James Jamu and Edington Chirape who joined from Blue Swallows while releasing the quartet of Bruno Mtigo, Blessing Sahondo, Lloyd Gwerina and Tafadzwa Chimoyo

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DYNAMOS captain Ocean Mushure finally returned to training this week, over a month after he decided to absent himself from work without official leave.

BY TAWANDA TAFIRENYIKA

The 33-year-old went AWOL (absent without official leave), at the start of June, a development that had left club coach Lloyd Mutasa ‘disappointed.’

According to Mutasa in an interview last week, efforts to locate the left-back by the club had proved futile.

However, Mushure turned up at the team’s training venue in Harare on Tuesday, and while many had expected that he will be punished for his truancy, it appears the club has decided to pardon one of their most senior and loyal players.

“He had some domestic issues to solve. He is now with us. He came to training yesterday (Tuesday) and today (Wednesday). He is our captain and this is a morale booster for the team,” said team manager Richard Chihoro.

Mushure went AWOL in protest over unpaid signing-on fees and allowances, which he claims to be in excess of $24 000.

“I have resumed training with the team but the issue of payments has not yet been resolved. I understand they are looking into it,” Mushure said.

He is hoping the new club leadership led by banker Isiah Mupfurutsa would resolve his problem.

Mushure was one of the outstanding players for the team, leading them to a second place finish last season.

He was even voted Soccer Star of the Year runner-up.

This season, he has been a pale shadow of himself, and consequently, the team has suffered and currently hover above the relegation zone.

To try and move away from the murky waters that they have found themselves in, DeMbare have also re-engaged Christian Ntouba Epoupa with a view to bring him back to the club.

The Cameroonian quit at the start of the season after the club reneged on their promise to pay his outstanding salaries and allowances.

Mutasa’s men, who allowed Chicken Inn to snatch a draw last weekend, travel to struggling Shabanie Mine on Sunday in a match they are expected to win.

The match, just like all the other Castle Lager Premier Soccer League fixtures this weekend, will kick-off at 1pm.
The league was forced to have an early kick-off to their matches, to avoid the counter attraction provided by the World Cup matches.

PSL Fixtures (All matches kick-off at 1pm)

Saturday: Chapungu v Mutare City (Ascot), Bulawayo City v Harare City (Barbourfields), Yadah FC v FC Platinum (National Sports Stadium), Chicken Inn v Nichrut (Luveve), Ngezi Platinum v Triangle (Baobab), ZPC Kariba v Black Rhinos (Nyamhunga)

Sunday: Caps United v Bulawayo Chiefs (National Sports Stadium), Highlanders v Herentals (Barbourfields), Shabanie Mine v Dynamos (Maglas)

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A SIX-MEMBER Zimbabwe team will next week leave for the World Junior Squash championships to be held in Chennai, India.

BY FREEMAN MAKOPA

The annual Under-19 event is scheduled to run from July 18-29 with 28 countries set to battle it out for honours.

Zimbabwe will compete with other nations such as Argentina, Australia, Canada,Colombia, Czech Republic, Egypt, England, Finland, France, Germany, HongKong, Iran, Ireland, Macau, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Pakistan, Poland, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, the US, and the hosts.

Zimbabwe Squash Association spokesperson Admire Magwaza said they have selected a strong member team that he is hopeful of returning home with some medals.

“We have chosen the best players in the country which includes four boys and two girls and given the rigorous training they went through, we expect a lot from them and we hope they will bring back glory,” Magwaza said.

“The boys are playing in both the individual and team events while the girls are only taking part in the individual event,” he said.

Magwaza said the selected teams have also participated in the South African IPT tournament in preparation for the world event.

“I think the teams are ready to rumble since they have been competing in different tournaments and they even participated at the recently held IPT tournament which was held in South Africa. I would like to thank the sponsors who have come to our aid, sponsors like CBZ, BOC Gases, FedEx and Belgravia Squash Club.

The squad will be under the mentorship of experienced coaches who are also former squash players.

They were selected at the Zimbabwe junior closed tournament and all players play in the local schools league which runs throughout the year.

The team

Boys: Ethan Porter (St Georges College), Tayne Turnock (Hellenic Academy), Harry Lawton (Hellenic Academy) Aedan Martin (St Johns College)

Coach: Blessing Muhwati (Zimbabwe No1 player)

Girls: Polite Mubure (Girls High School, Harare), Hannah Mannion (Hellenic Academy)

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Zimbabwe have suffered a major blow ahead of their ODI series against Pakistan with in-form batsman Solomon Mire being ruled out due to injury.

Cricbuzz

The 28-year-old, who came up with superb knocks of 94 and 63 — against Pakistan and Australia — in the recently-concluded T20I tri-series, will be out of action for a period of three weeks due to a gluteal tear.

“He will be out for at least three weeks as he concentrates on physiotherapy which aims to speed up healing and make sure the tear heals without tight scar tissue formation,” Anesu Mupotaringa, the team physiotherapist said.

The injury to Mire comes as a further setback for Zimbabwe, who are already without Kyle Jarvis as the pace bowler was ruled out for at least six weeks after sustaining a fracture to his right thumb while fielding during a tri-series match.

With Brendan Taylor, Sikandar Raza, Graeme Cremer, Sean Williams and Craig Ervine also not being named in the squad, Zimbabwe have included a majority of those who featured in the T20 series in the 16-member squad for the five-match ODI series, which starts tomorrow in Bulawayo.

Hamilton Masakadza, who had led the team in the T20 matches, will continue to serve as the captain.

Zimbabwe Cricket’s release yesterday made no mention of the five players, but before the tri-series the chairman of selectors Walter Chawaguta made it clear that they would be considered for selection if they made themselves available.

Given that none of the five players appeared in the squad, it appears that they continue to make themselves unavailable for selection as they wait to be paid their outstanding salaries and match fees.

Zimbabwe ODI squad: Brian Chari, Tendai Chatara, Chamu Chibhabha, Elton Chigumbura, Tendai Chisoro, Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Hamilton Masakadza (captain), Wellington Masakadza, Peter Moor, Ryan Murray, Tarisai Musakanda, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Liam Roche, Donald Tiripano, Malcolm Waller

The post Blow for Chevs as Mire is ruled out appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

Tadious Manyepo Sports Reporter
HARARE CITY might be having a dream season and having a 15-point cushion over Bulawayo City but coach Mark Harrison doesn’t expect an easy game when the teams clash in a lunch-time kick-off at Barbourfieds tomorrow.

City will be without regulars Moses Muchenje and Protasho Kabwe who are unavailable because of suspension.

Harrison’s men have punched above their weight given they were Division One-bound before the collapse of How Mine saw them getting a top-flight lifeline.

Harare City have lost just twice in their away trips to championship-chasing sides FC Platinum and Ngezi, with the other games ending in stalemates.

“Look, in reality, we are gunning for three points in Bulawayo but it won’t be an easy game,’’ said Harrison.

“They (Bulawayo City) are fighting for survival now.

“The second half of the season is always tricky. The team will be fighting for every point to help them survive.

“We are not going there thinking that we will walk around and stroll into town and pick up three                                   points.

“We should go there and graft, play and see if we can get the three points but it won’t be easy. Every game we play now is a tough match.’’

Harrison said he will find replacements for his absent stars.

“We have two suspensions, Moses (Muchenje) and Protasho (Kabwe) are out, so I am forced to make, at least, two changes, maybe three I don’t know, we will see,’’ said Harrison.

“Muchenje has played most games for us but you know we have a number of good players in our squad so it’s not about one player but the whole squad of 11 players.

“And I think we have a well-balanced squad, with a lot of young players waiting for their chance, so I don’t stress much over players who are suspended. After all that’s part of football.’’

Harrison hinted he would unleash the team’s new acquisition, Ishmael Wadi, who joined the side this week from FC Platinum.

Interestingly, Wadi has been at Bulawayo City, on loan from the Zvishavane miners.

“I am sure you will see him (Wadi) play part in the game. Look, I am hoping he will bring his goals because he is a proven goal-scorer.

“Last season he was a top scorer and so I’m hoping he will bring those goals, you know, we need that.

“He is technically very good, in front of goal you know he has got an eye for goal but it’s gonna take him a couple of weeks to adjust to what we want so I don’t expect him to sort of like hit the ground (running).

“We should be patient and give him a few weeks to adjust.’’

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LONDON. — Gareth Southgate’s England team were hailed as heroes by British media, who acclaimed their achievement rather than dwelled on disappointment after their heart-breaking Soccer World Cup exit on Wednesday night.

England’s hopes of reaching only their second ever World Cup final were dashed by Croatia, as Mario Mandzukic scored the deciding goal in a 2-1 extra-time win for Zlatko Dalic’s side on Wednesday night. Despite failing to make the most of arguably their best chance of reaching the final since 1966, British media hailed the team as heroes with Mirror Sport declaring them “National Treasures”, while the Daily Mail saluted their efforts.

The Telegraph’s front page called for England to “Hold your heads high” while the Guardian captured supporters’ mood with the headline “The hurt goes on”. The widespread optimism is a far cry from the reaction England received following their Euro 2016 exit, when the team and then manager Roy Hodgson were criticized heavily for their underwhelming performance in the competition. England’s valiant effort also drew praise from Britain’s Prince William, who said the team’s performance gave fans “something to believe in”. — AFP

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ZIMBABWE will give time to a number of emerging stars during the One Day International series against Pakistan, starting today at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, as they look to build a new team after failing to qualify for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019.

Addressing the media on the eve of the first ODI, Zimbabwe captain Hamilton Masakadza said the series will be a litmus test for his rebuilding side.

“I think the biggest thing is that as a country we don’t play a lot of international cricket, so there’s a lot to be gained by playing these games,” the veteran batsman said.

“We won’t be at the World Cup but it’s an opportunity to start building with the guys who will be at the next World Cup.

“We have a lot of inexperienced guys, so it’s an opportunity to blood the new guys, give them a go and have them get the feel of what playing at the highest level is like.”

With the in-form batsman Solomon Mire and frontline pace bowler Kyle Jarvis sidelined by injury, while a few of the senior players who were part of the disastrous World Cup campaign did not avail themselves for selection, Zimbabwe are a little short on experience.

But with Masakadza and former captain Elton Chigumbura, Chamu Chibhabha, Peter Moor, Tendai Chatara, Donald Tiripano and Tendai Chisoro in the mix, the new-look Zimbabwe side will not be push-overs for the vastly experienced Pakistan.

In Tarisai Musakanda, Blessing Muzarabani, Wellington Masakadza and Richard Ngarava, the home side boast young and talented players who have what it takes to compete against the world’s best.

Brian Chari and Prince Masvaure will be eager to seize their chance to impress, while the uncapped trio of Ryan Murray, Liam Roche and Tinashe Kamunhukamwe will be looking forward to making their international bow.

“The opposition will always be trying to come hard at you but I think it is very exciting,” the captain said.

“It is a big opportunity for a few of the guys to have a feel of the international stage and also for a few guys that haven’t been in the team, coming back and trying to reclaim their spots.

‘’So I think it’s very exciting.

“The situation with Mire is that he sustained a bit of an injury the last game we played. They are still having a look at him but he’’s very unlikely to play any part in the series.

“But there’s still a slight chance. They are assessing him, but definitely he won’t be available for the first couple of games and we’ve got at least two guys that are there as cover for the opening spots.

Zimbabwe ODI squad:

Brian Chari, Tendai Chatara, Chamu Chibhabha, Elton Chigumbura, Tendai Chisoro, Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Hamilton Masakadza (captain), Wellington Masakadza, Prince Masvaure, Peter Moor, Ryan Murray, Tarisai Musakanda, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Liam Roche, Donald Tiripano. — Zimbabwe Cricket/Sports Reporter

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Prince Mukuna Sports Reporter
RESPECTED coach and former Zimbabwe international Langton Moyo has quit as coach of local giants Harare City Hornets two years in which he guided them to the national and Harare Basketball Association championships.

Hornets’ chairperson Sani Mbofana confirmed the developments.

“Moyo cited personal reasons for this move and the executive has since respected his wishes and accepted the move.

“Moyo is a former Hornets player and as coach he is credited for winning the 2016-17 Harare Basketball Association A League Championship, the Basketball Union of Zimbabwe National Championships 2017 Championship.

“He also won the Bravehearts in Lilongwe (Malawi) 2017 International Tournament, Harare Mayor’s Basketball Challenge Championship among other credits”, he said.

Former Hornets assistant coach Mike Nhira will be in charge until a replacement is found.

“My resignation from the Hornets coaching men’s post was because of some person projects I am working on.

“Hornets is still part and parcel of me and in my blood, I have been at the club since 1991 and I enjoyed each and every moment.

“I have also recently attained a Level 2 diploma in basketball coaching,” said   Moyo.

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MOSCOW. — Croatia captain Luka Modric had some harsh words for the English media telling them to “be more humble” after his side’s historic 2-1 Soccer World Cup semi-final win.

Croatia reached the World Cup final for the first time in their history, after Mario Mandzukic’s extra-time winner prolonged England’s suffering in major tournaments and set up a decider against France. After coming through two penalty shoot-out victories over Denmark and Russia – Croatia were expected to tire against England. But instead as the game wore on it was the English who seemed to show fatigue.

“We proved everything differently that people were saying, especially English journalists, pundits from television, they underestimated Croatia tonight and that was a huge mistake,” said Modric. “All these words from them we take, we were reading and we were saying ‘OK, today we will see who will be tired’ and like I said, they should be more humble and respect more their opponents. “We showed against them we were not tired, we dominated the game, physically, mentally in all aspects, we should have killed the game before extra time. It’s an amazing achievement for us, it’s a dream come true after such a long time.” — AFP.

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Takudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter
CRANBORNE Bullets head coach Nesbert Saruchera says there is a lot at stake when they take on their bogey side Ngezi Platinum Under-19 at 2 Brigade this afternoon.

The two sides will battle in a Runyararo Service Stations Northern Region Division One League match.

Ngezi beat Bullets last week.

“We are not taking any chances, we need to win after we failed to collect maximum points in the last three or four matches,’’ said Saruchera.

“Ngezi managed to beat us last week and I hope we are geared up for the game and we have been preparing for it.

“We were not able to convert our chance, our conversion rate is very low and we hope it is going to be rectified.

“The game is going to be a tough match.’’

Northern Region Fixtures

Today

Cranborne Bullets v Ngezi Platinum U-19 (2 Brigade).

Tomorrow

Chegutu Pirates v Herentals U-20 (Pfupajena), Blue Jets v Alburaak (Suri Suri), ZRP FC v Chinhoyi Stars (Morris), Harare City Cubs v PAM United (Gwanzura), Beta X1 v Banket United (Motor Action), DZ Evangel v Trojan Stars (Dzivarasekwa), Karoi United v Blue Swallows (Chikangwe), Golden Valley v Mushowani Stars (Rimuka ).

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