adminSikhumbuzo Moyo Senior Sports Reporter
ZIFA Northern region will next season make it mandatory for all its affiliates to send their players for medical check-ups before the start of the season so as to ascertain their well-being. This comes following the sudden death of a ZRP Morris player, Nyasha Chakanyuka, who collapsed and died during his team’s Wednesday morning training session.
Northern region chairman Willard Manyengavana said they were shocked and saddened by the death of the 28-year-old left back who was also policeman. “We’re now going to encourage our teams to make sure that beginning every year; their players are medically examined before the kickoff of the season. That shall be compulsory,” said Manyengavana.
According to police spokesperson Charity Charamba, Chakanyuka had five rounds of practice before he complained that he was not fit and was feeling tired. Soon after that he is said to have collapsed and was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Football Association has joined the rest of the football fraternity in mourning Chakanyuka. “Chakanyuka was a young and ambitious player who met his untimely death while pursuing his professional dream.
“It’s saddening to lose such a talented footballer who represented his club with distinction,” Zifa communications manager Xolisani Gwesela in a statement published on the association’s official website. “Zifa is in mourning with his family, ZRP Morris FC, friends and the local football family as everyone grapples with the shocking loss.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Chakanyuka family in this time of grief and we encourage them to seek comfort and solace in the Almighty. Rest in peace,” said Gwesela.
Online Reporter