Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
SIMBA Bhora have completed the signing of Tavonga Kuleya, a United Kingdom-born Zimbabwean forward widely regarded as one of the country’s top emerging prospects for the senior national team.
The 21-year-old, who came through the youth ranks at English League Two outfit Doncaster Rovers, comes home after a string of development spells in England’s lower divisions.
Kuleya was most recently on the books of Belper Town, having been released by Doncaster at the end of the 2024/25 season.
Kuleya’s return to Zimbabwe marks a significant moment not just for his career but for the Premier Soccer League (ZPSL) as it continues to attract young talent from the diaspora.
“I am absolutely delighted to see Tavonga Kuleya sign for Simba Bhora FC after his release from Doncaster Rovers,” said UK-based Zimbabwe football advocate Marshall Gore.
“At just 21, this is a brilliant move if he settles well, he’s got the potential to light up the Premier League and earn an early call-up to the national team. Tavonga is a special talent. One to watch closely.”
Born in Bradford, England, to Zimbabwean parents, Kuleya first broke into Doncaster’s senior setup in 2021 during an EFL Trophy match while still part of the club’s academy.
He went on to sign professional terms in 2022 but found opportunities limited in a competitive first-team environment.
He spent the past two seasons gaining experience through loan spells at various English non-league clubs including FC United of Manchester, Matlock Town, Sheffield FC, and Gainsborough Trinity.
He made five league appearances for Doncaster last term, the last of which came in a 3-0 victory over MK Dons on New Year’s Day.
Despite initial reports suggesting a permanent deal with Belper Town, it has since emerged that Kuleya opted to pursue a new challenge with Simba Bhora, who have moved quickly to secure his services for the 2025 league title defence.
Simba Bhora, aiming to challenge for top honours this season, view Kuleya’s signing as a coup — a player with European training and Zimbabwean heritage, returning at a time when the national team is seeking new blood ahead of upcoming Afcon qualifiers.
“There’s no doubt that the integration of diaspora players into the local game will go a long way in raising the standards,” said Gore.
Bongani Ndlovu