The media fraternity is still mourning the untimely death of Christine Gonondo, a highly influential Zimbabwe Cricket scorer whose passing a fortnight ago left the media centre heartbroken.
Gonondo (45) was buried in her hometown of Mutare.
Known for her gentle demeanour, infectious smile, and easy-going yet friendly nature, Christine’s absence has created a void that many believe will be impossible to fill.
Leading the tributes was renowned blind cricket commentator Dean du Plesis, his voice heavy with grief.
“When I received the news that Christine had passed away, my heart literally shattered,” du Plesis shared with Sport Hub.
“She and I were exceptionally close, and from the day we met, there was a very special and deep bond between us.”
He fondly recalled a humorous, shared love for potatoes.
“Christine actually heard me say... ‘Let’s get into the meat and potatoes of the conversation,’ and she said, ‘But do you know that I love potatoes so very much?” du Plessis recounted.
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This led to a promise of a “potato date” – a plan to enjoy every conceivable potato dish – which tragically never materialised.
“I will miss you terribly, Christine. The media life itself will never be the same,” du Plessis said.
“When we do meet again, this time, I will fulfil my promise, and I will take you on the best potato date ever.”
He also highlighted her ever-present WhatsApp status, “’Keep calm, make it happen,’ and that’s exactly what you did.”
Jekesai Njikizana, veteran photojournalist and chairperson of the Cricket Journalists Association of Zimbabwe (CJAZ), expressed his shock.
“I was shocked to learn of the passing of Christine (Kiri) as I had not been aware of her fading health.
“So it came as such sudden and terrible news,” Njikizana said.
“Kiri was a calm and reliable fellow ‘Wasu,’ a Mountaineer through and through, and a quietly fierce supporter of the Chevrons.
“Kiri’s disarming smile and calm presence will be dearly missed.”
Tendai Mashura, another respected figure in the media, echoed the sentiment of loss.
“A true gem behind the scorebook... her passion for cricket and love for the game touched hearts everywhere.
“Her dedication, accuracy, and warm smile made her a beloved figure to players and fans alike,” Mashura said.
“Her legacy will live on in the scores she kept and the memories she created.
“Rest in peace, dear scorer, your love for the game will never be forgotten.”
Treasurer of CJAZ, broadcaster, and print all-rounder, Brian Goredema remembered Christine as an exceptionally easy person to work with.
“Journalists sometimes rely on scorers if they want to clarify some facts during a live match.
“Christine would be concentrating as her job required, and she still had time to answer you with grace.
“You wouldn’t have done justice to that topic without hearing her views first. Believe me, she had some interesting views.”
Christine’s passing sadly brings back memories of another smiling and talented female scorer, Robina Muzunguzika, who passed away in May 2016, underscoring the profound loss felt within the cricket media community.
