Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda-Zimpapers Sports Hub
TELONE coach, Herbert “Jompano” Maruwa is confident his team can still throw hard punches in the upcoming season, despite losing the services of Castle Soccer Star of the Year and Golden Boot winner Washington Navaya.
The 27-year-old Navaya attracted the interest of Premier Soccer League newboys Hardrock after scoring 17 goals during the 2025 Premiership season.
He was also crowned the best player of the season, following in the footsteps of Maxwell “Ma Rhino” Dube, the last Gweru-bred star to win the top gong back in 2001.
Naturally, it would have been difficult for TelOne to retain the services of Navaya, who also featured for Zimbabwe at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco.
However, the Wi-Fi Boys gaffer Maruwa remains confident his charges can replicate last season’s remarkable season.
TelOne had a stellar term, finishing a respectable fifth on their return to the top-flight league.
They registered 54 points, their best-ever tally in the Premiership.
Maruwa acknowledged Navaya’s role in TelOne’s campaign but believes his team will remain competitive despite losing their chief striker.
“Yes, of course, Navaya was a key player, his goals were important, and we will miss him.
“But the club will go ahead and produce other good players who can compete.
“We keep on pushing, at the same time affording unheralded players a chance to shine,” Maruwa told Zimpapers Sports Hub.
TelOne have welcomed former Harare City and Yadah striker Jerry Chipangura, who is hoping to resuscitate a fading career at the Gweru side.
Respected midfielder Innocent “Nhoko” Mucheneka, Chelsea Nyakope and ex-Triangle United keeper Takudzwa Chikosi are some of the new faces at TelOne, who have now intensified their pre-season training.
Nyakope turned out for relegated Bikita Minerals last season.
Another boost for TelOne is the availability of versatile forward Tawanda Macheke, who had impressive stats last season and is also still at the Wi-Fi Boys.
Macheke scored seven goals and had 10 assists.
A number of veterans including defender Frank Makarati and winger Leeroy Murape, have also opted to stay put in the Midlands capital.
“Nonetheless, we are going to introduce a lot of youngsters who are going to make a mark.
“As coaches we also have that responsibility,” added Maruwa.
Last season, Maruwa gave the platform to FC Porto Academy project Calvin Chigara.
The teenager played more than 10 games and will once again be one of the players to look out for.
National Under-17 hot-shot Tatenda Maulidi could also be unleashed by TelOne should Maruwa’s side thrash out a deal with Legends Football Academy.
