Controversial Warriors defender Pango dropped

Sport
BY BRIAN NKIWANE ZISCOSTEEL defender Munyaradzi “Pango” Mungadzi caused controversy when he was called to the Warriors training camp for the Championships of Nations (Chan).  

Probably his scrawny frame caused the stir and his links with Redcliff-based BM Academy, owned by Zifa board member Benedict Moyo worsened the situation.

 

Though Mungadzi did not make it in the final 23-member squad that is travelling to Chan next month, he is certainly assured of another dance with the Warriors.

Some big clubs have already started showing interest in the player.

Mungadzi said the call-up to the national team had opened avenues for the roving defender to join premiership clubs.

“There are more than three premiership clubs that have approached me for the 2011 soccer season. But Northern region newcomers Blue Ribbon are leading in chasing my signature,” Mungadzi said.

For the second time in two years, Ziscosteel players have found their way into the national team despite the fact that they will be plying their trade in the unfashionable world of Division one.

Last year young Tendai “Fish” Hove, also from Ziscosteel, was called into the Young Warriors team as one of the goalkeepers.

The inclusion of Mungadzi in the Warriors training squad however sent tongues wagging as people said that he was a little known player coming from a team in a lower league.

Warriors caretaker coach Madinda Ndlovu however defended the calling of Mungadzi.

“Like I said from the start, I am going to give every Zimbabwean player a chance to prove himself to me and the nation at large. As you have seen for yourselves, the boy needs guidance otherwise the country is assured of a natural left back defender,” said Ndlovu.

Team manager Christopher Chitindi was also impressed by Mungadzi.

“It’s a matter of exposure which sometimes lacks in areas like Kwekwe. The boy has acquainted himself very well, managed to blend with other veteran players,” Chitindi said.

Mungadzi started playing football at a tender age in Redcliff before joining BM Academy, owned and founded by Zifa board member competitions Moyo. He later graduated to become an important member of the Ziscosteel team where he is contracted.

Both Mungadzi and Hove graduated from BM Academy, which at times raises the eyebrows of those who know more about its foundation.

They wonder if it may not be the case of Moyo cutting some deals for his players who should otherwise never be considered for joining the Warriors.