Injuries and suspensions hamper Highlanders ahead ...

Injuries and suspensions hamper Highlanders ahead of Chicken Inn clash

Philemon Jambaya

Zim Now Editor

Highlanders coach Kelvin Kaindu is facing a mounting challenge ahead of his side's crucial Premier Soccer League match against Chicken Inn at Barbourfields Stadium. Injuries and suspensions have depleted his squad, raising concerns about their ability to compete at full strength.

While Kaindu did not disclose specific names, he revealed that several players sustained knocks during the recent 3-0 victory over Green Buffaloes in the Chibuku Super Cup. Additionally, captain Peter Muduhwa will miss the match due to a suspension, while defender Andrew Mbeba faces internal disciplinary action.

Arthur Ndlovu, a recent acquisition from Arenel Movers, has been filling in for Mbeba, while another defender, Archford Faira, has been ruled out of the Sunday game. Goalkeeper Raphael Pitisi was also forced off early in the Green Buffaloes match due to an injury.

"We have got a bit of good news and bad news," Kaindu said. "Some of our players were injured. Yesterday, we had two [Marvin Sibanda and Godfrey Makaruse] players who resumed training, although they were doing light training."

"It is unfortunate that even in the last game, we had Pitisi being stretchered out with another injury and also this week, we have a suspension on one of our key players. That probably gives us a disadvantage in depth when it comes to the selection of our team for this weekend's game."

The match against Chicken Inn holds significant importance for Highlanders. The Bulawayo giants have struggled to overcome their rivals since the return of football after the COVID-19 pandemic. In recent seasons, Chicken Inn has consistently proven to be a formidable opponent for Highlanders.

Kaindu expressed his apprehension about the current situation at Highlanders, highlighting the lack of competition in training due to the limited number of available players. "It becomes very difficult, if you look at the depth we have in training right now," he said. "Everyone who is training knows that they will be able to make it into the final team and it is a disadvantage when you are preparing for a team like Chicken Inn."

Chicken Inn, who will be playing at home on Sunday, had their attempt to increase gate charges to US$5 from US$3 for the match rejected by the Premier Soccer League.