Online Reporter
Takudzwa Manzero
Post Correspondent
MOUNTAINEERS and the cricketing fraternity are mourning the death of long-time scorer and cricket enthusiast, Christine Gonondo, who passed away recently after a short illness.
Her dedication to the sport saw her participate in the domestic and international circuit for over 15 years, a period marked by challenges ranging from international suspension, financial woes, and player disgruntlement.
Mountaineers general manager, Terry Nyakurimwa, said: “The Manicaland cricket community is deeply saddened by the untimely passing on of Christine Gonondo. She was known for her kindness, politeness, dedication, and willingness to assist others. The province has lost a senior scorer of exceptional integrity and commitment.”
A soft-spoken leader, Gonondo was highly attentive off the field, where she coordinated the accurate recording of scores during fixtures for the benefit of the audience and umpires.
A maestro in all three formats of the game, her service allowed for the collection of objective data for the eastern region-based franchise’s player scouting and development.
On a national level, her administrative role meant hours on the pitch to harness information to collaborate in the growth of sustainable Zimbabwe Cricket structures and players.
Even after being professionally involved in the game for 15 years, she never forgot her humble beginnings with the Mountaineers, who nurtured her love for the game of cricket until she made inroads into the scoring fraternity.
Gonondo maintained her professionalism, even when her affection for Mountaineers was an open secret.
Colleagues and fans recall her unique fandom as she whispered cheers under her breath for the team during the Mountaineers’ triumph of a domestic double, comprising the Logan Cup and Pro50 Championship, earlier this year.
She left the booth better than she found it, with a contribution that brought accurately quantified Zimbabwean cricket to the community, guardians, board of selectors, and international audience.
Eastern Titans manager Donald Tiripano said: “I have no words to describe this loss, as I have lost a family member, a sister. May she rest in peace.”
Precious Dzvifu, her colleague and protégée, said: “Christine was hardworking and dedicated to her job. She was one of the humblest people I have ever met, whose sisterly love and welcoming grace will be missed.
Scoring in the cricket booth will never be the same without her presence this upcoming season.”
Gonondo was laid to rest at her family home in Penhalonga on Tuesday.
