SHANDIRWA HAS COMPETITION BUT HE IS FINE WITH IT

Curtworth Masango

Zimpapers Sports Hub

CAPS United have been reassembled over the past few months, triggering expectations among their players and fans, ahead of the upcoming 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.

The Green Machine now boasts of an impressive arsenal of midfield options.

At the heart of all this lies a fascinating sub-plot, the presence of midfielder Tanaka Shandirwa, the 2023 Soccer Star of the Year finalist.

For Shandirwa, who first broke into the limelight at rivals Dynamos, the 2026 season represents a critical juncture, a chance for personal redemption and to finally lay his hands on the coveted league title.

“There is nothing to be worried about, it’s called squad depth. I take it as a healthy competition and if all goes well, exciting times are ahead,” said Shandirwa.

“Myself, I know what I can bring in the team and I am positive of a good season for the club.

“It’s now up to us to continue working hard and be the team to beat.

“Look at it closely, and you will tell me that it’s our opponents who should be worried about our squad not us.”

CAPS have a new technical team led by Takesure Chiragwi, who joins after a stint at Ngezi Platinum Stars.

His appointment is part of a sweeping change that also sees Warriors legend Tinashe Nengomasha taking over as team manager.

More strikingly, the club have executed one of the most aggressive recruitment drives in recent memory, signing at least 11 new players. The midfield, in particular, has been supercharged with experienced talent.

The new arrivals include familiar faces for Chiragwi – Richard Hachiro and McDonald Makuwe.

They are among seven players who have followed the coach from Ngezi Platinum Stars.

They join other proven campaigners, creating a unit brimming with competition.

Other names who are part of the midfield department are Bret Amidu, Lloyd Anjaliwa, Kundai Benyu, and Kennedy Mupomba. This concentration of talent turns the midfield battle at training into a mini-tournament, pushing every player, including Shandirwa, to elevate his game.