Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze
Zimpapers Sports Hub
FORMER champions, Ngezi Platinum stars have finally suspended temperamental coach, Takesure Chiragwi, who is under fire after slapping one of his players during an ill-tempered 1-1 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League draw with Dynamos early this month.
The shocking incident, caught on camera, unfolded during Ngezi’s 1-1 draw with Dynamos at Rufaro Stadium. Chiragwi, angered by DeMbare’s equaliser, lashed out and struck midfielder McDonald Makuwe, the very player who had stepped in to calm him down.
The confrontation halted play as match officials and teammates stepped in to restore order. Public outrage followed swiftly, forcing Chiragwi to resign the next day from his role as Warriors assistant coach.
Days later, a letter allegedly written by Makuwe surfaced, claiming the coach’s contact with his face had been accidental. Instead of quelling the storm, the explanation drew more anger, with fans accusing the club of shielding the coach from serious disciplinary action.
Under growing pressure, Ngezi eventually slapped Chiragwi with a three-match suspension.
During that period, the 2023 Premier Soccer League Coach of the Year will not attend training or match preparations. Assistant coach Kumbirayi Mutiwekuziva will take charge until Chiragwi’s return for the final fixture of the season against MWOS at Ngoni Stadium.
However, the club has refused to explain the nature of the suspension, insisting it cannot comment while waiting for the PSL’s disciplinary process to take its course.
“We are unable to comment on this matter at this stage as it is pending a PSL disciplinary hearing,” said Ngezi Platinum Stars Communications Officer Roberta Katunga.
“We respect the league’s processes and will await the outcome before making any further statements.”
The hearing is set for October 28 at the PSL offices, where both the coach and the club will face charges of violent and disorderly conduct and behaviour likely to bring football into disrepute.
The decision could not have come at a worse time for the Platinum miners, who are fourth on the log with 51 points, eight behind leaders Scottland, with only four games left. Simba Bhora and MWOS occupy second and third with 56 and 55 points respectively.
Despite the setback, Ngezi remain mathematically in the race.
Their remaining fixtures include crucial clashes with Simba Bhora and MWOS, both of whom are still in the title mix. With Scottland and MWOS meeting this weekend, results elsewhere could yet open the door for Ngezi to climb the table.
They have gone five matches unbeaten, collecting 11 points from a possible 15, and still harbour hopes of finishing in the top three.
“Our focus remains on maintaining team cohesion, welfare, and continuing our strong performance on the field,” added Katunga.
