Online ReporterInnocent Kurira, [email protected]
HIGHLANDERS players finally returned to training on Friday after club leaders addressed the squad and pledged that outstanding salaries would be paid this coming week, temporarily easing tensions ahead of this afternoon’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clash against Triangle at Barbourfields Stadium.
The return to training ended days of uncertainty at the Bulawayo giants after players had once again downed tools over unpaid salaries, with sources indicating the squad is owed close to two months’ pay.
The latest standoff had threatened to derail preparations for Highlanders’ next assignment at a time when coach Benjani Mwaruwari is attempting to keep the club competitive despite growing off-field challenges.
Players reportedly held a meeting with members of the club’s leadership on Friday, where assurances were made that payments would begin this week.
The promises appeared enough to convince the squad to resume training, although concerns remain over whether the commitments will be fulfilled.
A player said the squad had chosen to give the leadership another opportunity to resolve the matter.
“We decided to return because we were promised that the issue would be attended to next week. As players we want to focus on football, but at the same time these are issues that affect our livelihoods,” said the player.
Another player said the repeated salary delays were beginning to take a mental toll on members of the squad.
“It becomes difficult to fully concentrate when these situations keep happening. We love the club and we want to do well for the supporters, but stability is important for players to perform at their best,” said the player.
The latest developments offer temporary relief for Benjani, who has had to navigate a difficult environment during his first months in charge. The former Zimbabwe international has cut a calm figure publicly despite recurring financial problems threatening to overshadow football matters.
Highlanders have now experienced multiple salary-related disruptions this season, a worrying pattern that continues to expose the club’s financial vulnerabilities.
The crisis has also intensified scrutiny on Bosso’s business model, with growing debate among supporters over the club’s dependence on limited revenue streams in the modern game.
While Highlanders continue to attract some of the biggest crowds in local football, concerns remain over whether matchday income alone can sustain a giant institution with huge operational demands. Questions have also been raised over transparency and long-term financial planning at the member-owned club.
Today’s match now carries added significance as Highlanders attempt to shift attention back onto football after another turbulent week behind the scenes.
For the players, however, the real test may come during the week when the leadership is expected to honour the promises made during Friday’s meeting. Until then, the uneasy truce at Bosso remains built more on hope than certainty.
