tawandamusarurwa
Online Reporter
NEWLY promoted sides Simba Bhora and Hwange FC will not host their historic high-profile day one fixtures at their respective home grounds after they were deemed unfit to host Premier Soccer League (PSL) games.
Simba Bhora and Hwange were scheduled to host Dynamos FC and FC Platinum, respectively.
Although renovations are underway at Rufaro Stadium, work is behind schedule.
Three other stadiums that were functional last season – Ascot, Sakubva and Vengere – have similarly been condemned.
However, the National Sports Stadium, Barbourfields, Luveve, Mandava, Gibbo and Baobab have been approved by the ZIFA Club Licensing First Instance Body (FIB).
Simba Bhora, who are based in Shamva, were hoping to use Wadzanai Stadium, which is presently being upgraded.
It means Simba Bhora might now use an already oversubscribed National Sports Stadium for their home matches.
Dynamos, CAPS United, Black Rhinos, Herentals, Cranborne Bullets and Yadah are the Harare-based clubs that will be using the same venue.
With Ascot Stadium in Gweru banned from hosting PSL games, Sheasham might have to temporarily use Mandava in Zvishavane, while work continues at Bata Stadium.
Hwange, who host DeMbare in their opening fixture, could use either Luveve or Barbourfields in Bulawayo.
Triangle, Manica Diamonds and newly promoted Green Fuel might share Gibbo Stadium.
“The FIB will conduct more inspections in the weeks to come,” wrote PSL chief executive officer Kennedy Ndebele.
The PSL have also announced that it will no longer sanction any friendly matches ahead of the 2023 Castle Lager PSL, which kicks off on March 18.
FC Platinum clash against Bulawayo Chiefs in the Castle Challenge Cup on Saturday.
“Clubs are advised to ensure that player registration is completed and player licences are collected by 1pm on Friday March 17, 2023.
“Unregistered players will not be allowed to participate in the PSL competitions,” added Ndebele.
Online Reporter