Online Reporter
Bruce Chikuni, Zimpapers Sports
FORMER Dynamos skipper Frank Makarati’s move to join TelOne has seen him reuniting with Tafadzwa Jaravani, with whom he shared the dressing room in Eswatini nine years ago.
Ironically, Herbert Maruwa, who invited the duo during his short stay at Manzini Wanderers in Eswatini, is the same coach who will be guiding Makarati and Jaravani this season.
Their union in Eswatini lasted only six months, due to a breach of their contracts.
Manzini Wanderers were the duo’s second club, as Makarati had made his top-flight debut with Border Strikers, and Jaravani with Tsholotsho.
It is not yet known if Maruwa plans to play them as his two central defenders, as was the case nine years ago.
Jaravani can also play as a defensive midfielder.
Makarati nearly lost his life while fighting for Maruwa’s cause, suffering a life-threatening head injury in Eswatini.
The defender has a huge scar on his forehead, which he feels is proof that he is a survivor.
Makarati went on to join the now-defunct How Mine, followed by a move to Ngezi Platinum and Dynamos.
Jaravani extended his union with Maruwa as they joined Black Rhinos.
Jaravani also had stints with CAPS United and Simba Bhora before reuniting with Maruwa last season. Maruwa battled odds to win Makarati’s signature from Dynamos.
Jaravani also has a unique tale, having lost his front tooth while playing for Maruwa during his tenure at Chauya Chipembere.
Makarati told Zimpapers Sport that he is thrilled with this reunion.
“I’m more than excited to be playing again with Jaravani as we have been friends for a long time, both on and off the field.
“It’s been a long time since we last played together but I believe we have both gained a lot of experience in the past seven years.
“He is a fighter who doesn’t give up easily and having someone with such attributes next to me only challenges me to do better,” said Makarati.
Jaravani shared the same sentiments.
“Makarati has grown to become a good player and I’m happy for him because we started playing together when we were still battling to make our names known.
“I’m happy that we are going to be sharing the same changing room, he is a player with a lot of experience, and this will help our team achieve its objectives,” said Jaravani.
