Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
DESPITE strong interest from several Premiership rivals, Highlanders vice-captain Andrew Mbeba will remain at Barbourfields after an ongoing injury emerged as the decisive factor that halted both his club and national team ambitions and a possible move away from Bulawayo.
Mbeba had drawn serious attention from FC Platinum, Hardrock and Scottland during the off-season, with the Zvishavane-based former champions leading the chase for his signature. That momentum shifted after the defender was withdrawn from the Warriors camp preparing for the Africa Cup of Nations finals, having failed medical assessments linked to a right knee injury.
The ruling ended his involvement with the national team and raised doubts over his readiness for the domestic season, dealing a blow to interested clubs. Sources close to FC Platinum told Zimpapers Sports Hub that concerns over Mbeba’s long-term fitness forced hesitation, even though he remained one of their key targets.
“I can tell you for a fact, Mbeba was headed for FC Platinum. But the reality is that his full recovery requires surgery, and that would rule him out for three to four months.
“That was where the uncertainty came in, especially with the season starting in March,” said a source from the Zvishavane camp.
Hardrock, who had also been tracking Mbeba’s situation, are understood to have cooled their interest following the appointment of Kelvin Kaindu as head coach, amid suggestions of a strained relationship between the two from previous engagements.
The injury has therefore not only sidelined Mbeba internationally but has also stalled what once appeared an inevitable exit from Bosso. For Highlanders, his continued presence offers a measure of stability during a period of significant change.
The Bulawayo giants have confirmed the departure of eight players whose contracts expired on December 31 as part of a restructuring exercise under newly appointed head coach Thabo Senong. Those leaving include McKinnon Mushore, Nqobile Ndlovu, Mbonisi Ncube, Honest Mhlanga, Learnmore Muyambo, Melikhaya Ncube, Martin Nhubu and Atusaye Nyondo.
Highlanders have moved quickly to reinforce the squad, securing midfielder Mongameli Tshuma and defender Tawanda Shenje from Hwange, Rayton Chuma from Nust FC and Royn Nyamono from Bikita Minerals. Goalkeeper Pride Zendera has also been confirmed, with midfielders Brian Jaravaza, Shepherd Mhlanga and Rainsome Pavari linked to the club.
