GEORGE Tandi, former speed merchant turned development coach, is beaming with pride after his protégé Richard Ngarava was recently appointed Zimbabwe's Test and ODI captain.
Tandi described Ngarava's appointment as his "greatest prize" and a testament to his coaching abilities.
"I think it is my prize, the greatest, the grandest prize I've been given," Tandi said, expressing his gratitude to God for allowing him to groom a future Zimbabwe captain.
Tandi, who coached at Churchill Boys High, played a significant role in Ngarava's development, and his hard work has paid off.
"I've groomed a leader, I've groomed a boy that is doing something that is exceptional. I've put a big hand in grooming you to be the person that you are," Tandi said, praising Ngarava's leadership qualities.
Tandi is excited with Ngarava's success and has some words of advice for the new captain:
"Lead the country well, be a leader for all players, and focus on the game for all the players in the team. You are a team captain, no longer an individual player."
With Ngarava's appointment, Tandi feels he has reached self-actualisation in his coaching career.
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"I've achieved greatness as the firstb Zimbabwean to be selected for the Zimbabwean national cricket squad, and I'm one of the wisest boys to ever live," he said.
Tandi shared his coaching philosophy: "Potential is painful. Let's push and keep on improving. Let's improve on our game intelligence, tactical awareness, and technical awareness."
The former Shiriyedenga primary school development coach also grateful for the support he has received.
"I would like to thank the whole Zimbabwe Cricket family, and all the people that love me in my mafia, all my people that respect me and love me for what I am."
Tandi's excited to see what's next for Ngarava and Zimbabwe Cricket.
"God enrich you, and I pray that you lead us all, and prayerfully, one day, you'll be able to lead us to more percentage of games won, and also, prayerfully, lift us up on the rankings" he said.
As Tandi nears the end of his time as a development coach, he remains proud of what he's achieved and is excited to see Ngarava lead Zimbabwe to success.
"When you achieve, I achieve. When I dream, you achieve," he said, wishing Ngarava and the Zimbabwe team all the best.
