Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE 2025 Bulawayo Metropolitan Province Darts Association Awards have shaped into a tight three-man race for the coveted Player of the Year accolade.
Front-running the contest is How Mine’s Frank Kazingizi, who enjoyed a strong season highlighted by topping the Most Six-Packs category with six, a tally he shared with veteran Ian Nyathi of Mass and Fanwell Mashindi.
Kazingizi also finished second in the Most 180s category with 16, behind Nyathi who led the charts with 20, while Wisewaters’ Johannes Chirwa was third with 14. The How Mine thrower further underlined his consistency by placing third in the Chairman’s Singles Tournament.
Defending top performer Ian Nyathi remains firmly in contention after dominating the Match Play 140s, where he amassed a season-high 56. Kazingizi followed closely with 54, while Bulawayo Reserve Bank’s Mgcini Nkala finished third on 52.
Wisewaters’ Abineri Shereni stood out in the finishing department, registering the two highest checkouts of the season — 170 and 167 — with Nkala next best on 160. Shereni was also instrumental in Wisewaters’ campaign, although the side failed to defend their league title. He went on to finish third in the Legends Singles Tournament.
Reserve Bank claimed the league championship, with Sharks finishing second and Wisewaters third.
In the women’s category, Nomvelo Ncube is a strong favourite for the Best Player award. She was among the top three at the National Darts Association of Zimbabwe Championships held in Mutare in August, partnered Makanaka Gumbo to victory in the Chairman’s Doubles, and also won the Legends Singles title.
Bulawayo Metropolitan Province Darts Association spokesperson Collen Zvimbvatu described the season as highly competitive, noting the consistency shown by the top clubs.
“It is not surprising to see Reserve Bank, Sharks and Wisewaters swapping positions at the top. These three clubs have been very consistent,” said Zvimbvatu.
He added that the men’s Player of the Year award was likely to be decided between Nyathi and Kazingizi.
Peter Tanyanyiwa