Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
RUFARO Stadium is on the brink of a ban to protect players from the deteriorating pitch.
The iconic venue, home to four Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clubs, Dynamos, CAPS United, Herentals and Scottland has left players’ safety in question.
Rufaro’s playing surface has succumbed to overuse, to add to lack of professional maintenance standards.
ZIFA First Instance Board chairman Sharif Mussa said the decision to ban the stadium has not been made, but it has been considered.
“On banning the stadium I can’t say anything but we have been in talks as ZIFA and PSL.
“But we are looking for an amicable position that will be good for the game of football and benefit everyone,” he said.
“There have been no further decisions made yet but there is fear that big damage might come out on that ground, if things don’t change for the better” said Mussa.
Despite the outcry, the Harare City Council, which owns the stadium, remains defiant.
Council spokesperson Stanley Gama dismissed ban rumours, insisting the facility is operational and that renovations are on track.
However, bucket seats, electronic turnstiles, and a modern scoreboard, promised months ago remain out of sight.
“There is nothing moved towards banning of the stadium. The pitch is okay and quite improving.
“There will be also an international break coming soon and it will give it time to be in its best shape.
“There is no crisis as allegedly said. Recently we had PSL and ZIFA and they were actually happy to see the progress we have been making,” said Gama.
The stadium’s woes stem from a busy schedule where it hosts four or more fixtures in just 11 days. The stadium owners have been accused of prioritising revenue over player welfare.
