Highlanders preps gather pace

HIGHLANDERS’ practise match against Nkayi United at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) grounds yesterday, was a glimpse of what fans can expect this coming season.

From the energy on the touchline and the careful management of playing resources to the visible presence of club leadership, the afternoon reflected a side steadily coming together.

That supporters still gathered around the venue, finding ways to watch despite restricted access, only underlined the enduring bond between Bosso and their faithful as preparations for the new season continue.

Here are the five talking points from behind closed doors practice match, which saw Nkayi United edge one nil. This was before another game between the two sides, which ended 0-0.

Nonetheless, yesterday revealed plenty about the club’s present direction.
1. A lively touchline and a shared voice
If the players were hoping for a quiet run-out, they were swiftly disappointed. Benjani Mwaruwari and Mkhokheli Dube were animated throughout, prowling the technical area, barking instructions, tweaking systems and shuffling personnel with barely a pause for breath. The two took turns to lead from the front, switching roles seamlessly, a clear indication of a collaborative coaching setup. Mwaruwari, in particular, cut an authoritative figure, his presence commanding attention and respect. This is a coach who believes in constant communication.

2. The Mahachi question refuses to go away
Perhaps the most intriguing sub-plot concerned Kudakwashe Mahachi. The former Bosso midfielder went through his warm-up routines but, along with several others, did not feature in the teams that took to the field. It raised an unavoidable question: do Highlanders still have concrete plans for Mahachi? After the final whistle, Mahachi was seen deep in conversation with Mwaruwari, a discussion that lasted several minutes. While the content remains unknown, it appeared tactical rather than casual. That Mahachi did not play, yet remained engaged, suggests a situation still being carefully assessed.

3. Ariel Sibanda’s subtle shift
Ariel Sibanda, reportedly set to assume a coaching role, was another notable absentee from the playing action. He did not feature in either game but was very much present, taking on duties that hinted strongly at a transition from pitch to coaching. Observing drills, speaking with players and positioning himself alongside the technical team, Sibanda looked every inch a man preparing for life beyond goalkeeping gloves.

4. Leadership watching closely
Highlanders’ leadership was also in attendance, with chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, vice-chairman Fiso Siziba and chief executive officer Denzil Mnkandla all present. Their appearance underlined the importance the club attaches to these sessions. This was not merely a kick-about; it was an audit of progress, structure and intent.

5. Love beyond locked gates
Despite being denied entry, Bosso supporters still found ways to watch, peering in from surrounding vantage points.
Their presence, even at a distance, spoke volumes. Highlanders remain a club that inspires loyalty bordering on devotion.

Even a closed-door practice match cannot fully shut out a fanbase determined to stay connected.
In the end, this was less about the scoreline and more about signals.