Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
WHEN Washington Navaya prowled the pitch for Highlanders, he carried the hopes of Bulawayo’s fervent fans as a raw, rising star. Now, at TelOne, the 26-year-old striker isn’t just chasing promise — he’s crushing it, leading the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League with four goals in five games and eyeing his first Golden Boot.
Standing at 1.81m, Navaya may not tower like Europe’s giants, but in Zimbabwe’s top flight, he’s a colossus in the box. Fresh off winning March’s Player of the Month — and a cool US$750 prize — the forward’s hunger is fiercer than ever. “I’m grateful for the award, but I knew I had a chance because I was in good form,” he said. “I’m just happy to help the team.”
The accolade came minutes before TelOne’s narrow 1-0 loss to champions Simba Bhora in Shamva last weekend. Undeterred, Navaya has his sights locked on Saturday’s clash against unbeaten Ngezi Platinum Stars at Bata Stadium. “We must take three points,” he declared. “It won’t be easy, but we have to fight.”
TelOne’s home form under Herbert “Jompano” Maruwa has been fearsome, with three straight wins in Gweru—including last October’s shock 1-0 upset against Ngezi. “We respect them, but we’re confident at home,” Maruwa said. “Navaya is part of that confidence. He’s working extra hard.”
The coach set a bold challenge for his star: hit double digits this season. “I told him he must push for 10 goals or more,” Maruwa revealed. “He’s doing his job, but I’m pleased he’s taking that extra step.”
Navaya’s journey mirrors TelOne’s resurgence. After the club’s relegation in 2019, he honed his craft at Highlanders, weathering the storm of Barbourfields’ demanding crowds. “I learnt a lot there,” he said. “It shaped my mentality. Now, I bring that experience back.”
Reunited with TelOne, following their 2024 promotion, Navaya has flourished — sharper, smarter and oozing belief. “Everything’s going well here,” he grinned. “It feels like home.”
This weekend, that home comfort faces its toughest test as Ngezi Platinum arrive. TelOne trail the leaders by six points, but a win could reignite their charge. For Navaya, it’s another chance to cement his leap from Bosso prospect to league MVP.
“It’s a long journey,” he said. “But step by step, I want to keep scoring.” If he does, the echoes of his goals won’t just ring in Gweru—they’ll roar nationwide.
