Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE mood at Chicken Inn Football Club is one of quiet confidence and renewed purpose as the 2026 season approaches. The Gamecocks have managed to hold onto the backbone of their squad, with several seasoned players pledging their loyalty once again.
It’s a reassuring sign for a team determined to shake off the shadows of last season and soar higher.
Among those who have committed to the cause are towering defender Itai “Ijoma” Mabhunu, the lively Michael Charamba, the industrious Mpumelelo Bhebhe and the dependable Brandon Rendo, among others.
“These are our boys and we are glad they have proved their dedication. It’s pleasing to note that Mabhunu, Mpumelelelo, Rendo, Charamba, Brian Muza, George Majika and Donovan Bernard have committed to the club.
These our sons we are very much happy that come this season we are going to start afresh with them. I guess they want to prove a point after playing the whole of 202025 season under pressure. Now they will be free from the relegation stress,” said Chicken Inn secretary-general Tavengwa Hara.
But the ambition doesn’t stop there. Sources suggest a major recruitment drive is on the horizon at the Simbisa Brands-sponsored outfit, with whispers that defensive stalwart Peter Muduhwa and the skilful Walter Musona are being targeted.
If these moves materialise, Chicken Inn could be shaping up as serious contenders.
The club has already signalled its intent with a sweeping overhaul of the technical team. Veteran coach Joey Antipas has stepped aside, making way for championship-winning tactician Tonderai Ndiraya. At Gamecocks, Ndiraya arrives with his trusted assistant Naison Muchekela and the youthful Fortune
“Fokoza” Ncube as second deputy.
Muchekela replaces Philani Mabhena, while Ncube — a former Bantu Rovers player and Dulivhadzimu coach — takes over from Guide Goddard. It’s a fresh start, a new brain trust ready to inject energy and ideas.
However, the shake-up has not been without casualties. We understand that long-serving members of the technical department — goalkeepers’ coach Energy Murambadoro, medical team members Wayson Mpala and Joseph Magura, and team manager Sikhumbuzo Banda — have been frozen out, notified through personal letters. Club president Lifa Ncube has hinted that some may return, but for now, the changes are sweeping.
Ndiraya has signed a three-year contract, and further appointments to the backroom staff will be announced soon. His mandate is clear.
“The technical team is tasked with implementing a clear football philosophy focused on structure, intensity, discipline and results while supporting player development and team cohesion,” said Hara.
The stage is set. The Gamecocks have kept their core, sharpened their technical edge, and are quietly building a squad that looks ready to compete. The question now is whether the rest of the league is prepared for the fight Chicken Inn is about to bring.
