Online Reporter
Bruce Chikuni, Sports Reporter
FOR Walter Musona, it is not a burden but a blessing to lead Scottland as the skipper.
Questions were asked about how Tonderai Ndiraya was planning to manage the ego and quality within his star-studded camp.
And, it was not clear who was going to get the nod to lead the local Galacticos, as Khama Billiat, Talbert Shumba, Godknows Murwira, Peter Muduhwa, Ronald Pfumbidzai and Musona all appeared fit for the role.
Musona, the youngest among the group, walked out of the Rufaro tunnel leading Scottland with the captain’s armband in their debut match against Triangle two weeks ago.
Some argued that it was simply because Billiat was still nursing an injury as he watched from the terraces.
But that uncertainty was cleared when Billiat featured in the team’s 2-0 win against CAPS United last Sunday.
Musona was given the same role, by the same coach last season, as Simba powered to the league championship title.
It also ended a lengthy wait for Ndiraya’s maiden championship, which had appeared elusive in his attempts at Dynamos and Ngezi Platinum.
Musona admitted that he was surprised by Ndiraya’s gesture, which left him feeling blessed.
He also told Zimpapers Sports that the leadership role helped him win his second Soccer Star of the Year gong in a space of three seasons.
“It’s not really a burden. Last season, when we won the championship with Simba Bhora, I was also given the same responsibility at the start of the season by the same coach.
“It shows I did my best to meet his expectations and, maybe, that’s why he gave me the same role at this club. At first, I was really shocked, but I embraced his decision.
“There are many senior players at Scottland but I’m grateful to coach Ndiraya for the trust he has shown in me, and I can only repay that by replicating how I led Simba Bhora last season,” he said.
He added,
“This role has helped me to keep my eyes on the ball because I’m always expected to lead by example. It’s a great feeling to be the captain of such a great team and it is not easy to lead senior players.
“I will try to lead this mixed group of young and senior players and also use the knowledge that I have acquired in my career. I’m really looking forward to this new challenge.
“The goal is to win as many games as possible because what matters most at the end of the day is to win more matches than any other team in the league.”
