Sibanda off to Maritzburg

Sport
HIGHLANDERS midfielder Charles Sibanda, striker Mgcini Sibanda and Zim Leopards’ Tinashe Makanda are set for trials at Absa Premier Soccer League side Maritzburg United in South Africa on December 19.

HIGHLANDERS midfielder Charles Sibanda, striker Mgcini Sibanda and Zim Leopards’ Tinashe Makanda are set for trials at Absa Premier Soccer League side Maritzburg United in South Africa on December 19.

Highlanders midfielder Charles Sibanda
Highlanders midfielder Charles Sibanda

THANDIWE MOYO SPORTS CORRESPONDENT

Although Maritzburg initially denied that Charles was headed their way, sources privy to the deal said the three would be at the club for two weeks with prospects Charles and Mgcini could stay longer.

“They (Charles, Mgcini and Makanda) are leaving for Maritzburg on December 19,” said the source.

“Their tickets have already been bought and they have signed contracts with their representatives for their travel arrangements. Charles and Mgcini could be there for longer than two weeks.”

The three are said to have signed contacts with their representatives on Friday with the chairperson Farook Kadodia and an unnamed club representative in the country.

Highlanders chief executive officer Ndumiso Gumede
Highlanders chief executive officer Ndumiso Gumede

The two arrived on Friday evening.

“The deals are going ahead and if all goes well, they could be signing for the club,” the source said.

“Charles and Mgcini will probably remain because they have to go for medicals. Both players’ parents have been spoken to and they have agreed to have their sons go for the trials.”

Maritzburg are home to two other Zimbabweans — former Highlanders left-back Khumbulani Banda and striker Terrence Mandaza.

Highlanders chief executive officer Ndumiso Gumede confirmed that Charles and Mgcini would be going for trials.

“There is an e-mail to that effect, but I have not been able to open it,” he said.

Kudakwashe Musharu
Kudakwashe Musharu

“I can, however, confirm that we heard about it and they will be going to South Africa.”

Charles’ contract with former league champions Highlanders is coming to an end and a lot of speculation has surrounded his next move.

He was recently selected as part of the country’s best 11 players in the soccer star of the year vote last month.

He will also share the golden boot award with How Mine’s Kudakwashe Musharu after scoring 12 goals in the past season.