Sundaymail Editor
Sports Reporter
TAKESURE Chiragwi has been made interim coach twice but he now wants to underline his credentials after being named substantive Ngezi Platinum Stars gaffer ahead of the 2023 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.
The pint-sized coach believes he is ready for the challenge of guiding the Mhondoro miners in the demanding championship marathon.
He was first made interim coach when Ngezi parted ways with Rodwell Dhlakama earlier last season, before assuming a similar role when the miners axed Benjani Mwaruwari towards the end of the term.
Chiragwi — who was also called Deco by his peers after the talented Portuguese midfielder during his playing days at CAPS United — has opted for continuity, retaining the bulk of the squad that made a strong finish in the 2022 campaign. Although Ngezi are traditionally known for being among the busiest clubs on the transfer market, they have broken with tradition this time around.
Instead, they have so far made three additions to their squad to fill gaps created by the departure of players such as Denver Mukamba, who was released after his contract with the club expired.
“We have kept the bulk of the players we had last season,” Chiragwi said.
“We felt we did well with the guys we had last season and we also need the continuity of keeping the players if we are to build a better and competitive side.
“We have only made three signings — Gareth Madhake, Malvin Gaki and Claudius Mapako, whom we felt can add depth in their areas.” Chiragwi, who has also previously coached Shabanie Mine, feels he will not be under pressure to perform, now that he is substantive coach.
He wants the team to gel.
“Building a team that can compete is a process that you need to allow as a club or as a coach, and it is not a one-day wonder . . .,” he said.
“As a technical team, we felt we need to keep these players and continue from where we left last season, hoping that we can do better than what we did last season.”
He also insisted his new designation would not change the way he does his work.
“I do not think there is any difference between a substantive coach, interim coach or assistant coach. In all these, there is one common denominator, which is coaching.
“I am doing the same things that I have been doing as an interim and assistant coach.
“I will continue to do what I have done since joining the club and put the interests of the club first. So, I would say I am ready for the challenge.” Ngezi Platinum Stars have notoriously averaged a coach a season.
From Klifton Kadurira (now with the Under-19 side), Tonderai Ndiraya, Elroy Akbay, Rodwell Dhlakama to Mwaruwari, Ngezi have never been known for being patient in their quest to win the Premiership, which has so far proved elusive.
They have only won the Chibuku Super Cup once and finished as runners-up twice.
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