The ManicaPost
Ray Bande and Fungai Munyoro
SPORTING activities in Manicaland province, just like the rest of the globe, have not been spared by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Different sporting organisations have put all activities on ice as Zimbabwe tries to curb the spread of the disease.
Training sessions and competitive matches in the Premier Soccer League, Eastern Region Division One, domestic cricket, athletics, pool and netball, have all been suspended.
Manicaland’s flagship football club, Manica Diamonds FC chairman Masimba Chihowa said they had suspended all activities, including training and pre-season friendly matches.
“We have suspended all activities, including training and pre-season friendly matches. In fact, all the players have been told to go back home and stay safe in the face of Covid-19.
“The decision to resume training and pre-season friendly matches hinges on the developments that unfold as we monitor the situation. As law-abiding citizens, we are guided by the statutes of the country as well as decisions that are made at central authority level,” said Chihowa.
Manicaland Pool Association chairman Fungai “Nyathi” Makoni said the sport’s suspension is for the good of the players and their contacts.
“We first suspended tournaments last week after the President’s announcement, but we continued with our league games as it does not involve many people.
“However, we have since suspended all games until further notice. While the sport is a good source of entertainment, we had to consider human life first. We have an obligation to adhere to health safety measures in order to prevent the further spreading of the virus,” he said.
Mountaineers coach Shephard Makunura said his team is also on a break, although he pointed out that the disruption might negatively affect the momentum in his camp.
“This has brought everything to a standstill, but it has to be done to stop the virus from spreading,” he said.
His captain, Kevin Kasuza, echoed similar sentiments.
Green Fuels Angels coach Farai Mlambo said they had released all their players.
“Our players have gone back to their respective homes. We will have to work hard to regain our fitness when coronavirus is under control,” he said.
Zifa Eastern Region vice-chairman Wisdom Simba said no activity was currently taking place in the league.
“Just like any other institutions in Zimbabwe, we stand guided by the President’s directive. We have since advised our clubs that the season will kick off at a date to be advised.
“So far, we are busy inspecting some of the selected venues, namely Claremont, Gaza, Mutare Showgrounds, Melfort, Zaka and Renco,” said Simba.
