We are just starting to see something

Onward Gangata, Zimpapers Sports Hub

HARDROCK coach Kelvin Kaindu has less than two weeks to turn hype into a functioning team as Zimbabwe’s most talked about new club prepares for a high-profile Premier Soccer League debut.

The ambitious Kwekwe side is in Botswana, putting final touches to combinations and match fitness, while expectations continue to grow around a squad built on strong financial backing and headline signings.

Hardrock have already been tipped as early title contenders, but Kaindu insists the focus within camp remains on building cohesion and discipline rather than buying into outside noise.

“We are just starting to see something already. From the start, we have been together and the team is different from when we began. The objective is to build a strong team and create a bond among the players,” said Kaindu.

The club have used the camp to play closed-door practice matches and analyse opposition. Over the weekend, the technical team attended a Botswana Premier League match between Black Lions and BDF XI at Royal Aria Stadium as part of their scouting efforts.

It is a deliberate attempt to establish a solid base before stepping into the demands of top flight football, where early results often define the trajectory of a season.

Hardrock’s project has drawn attention across the league, driven by aggressive recruitment and the imminent opening of the multi million dollar Chahwanda Stadium, which is set to be officially unveiled on Saturday.

On paper, the squad carries serious pedigree. Reigning Soccer Star of the Year Washington Navaya headlines a group that includes Junior Makunike, Donald Mudadi, goalkeepers Tonderai Mateyaunga and Martin Mapisa, and seasoned defender Masimba Mambare.

Yet Kaindu knows that assembling talent is only the starting point. The real challenge lies in forging individual ability into a balanced side capable of handling pressure from the first whistle.

The Botswana camp ends on Thursday, after which the team will return home to finalise preparations for a heavyweight opening match against champions Scottland at Chahwanda Stadium — a fixture that will provide the clearest early indication of how ready the newcomers truly are.