MALVERN “Maluva” Mukonza has been crowned the new national pool champion after a thrilling victory over Charles “Macement” Mariyano at the 6th edition of the National Elite Pool Association of Zimbabwe tournament held at Smallstones, Chitungwiza, on Saturday.
Maluva walked away with US$500 in prize money, while Macement received US$300 as consolation.
In a tense and dramatic final that had spectators on the edge of their seats, Maluva demonstrated nerves of steel to overcome his formidable opponent with a nail-biting 5-4 scoreline.
His victory isn't just a win; it's a testament to the spirit of a champion who never gave up, even when the odds were stacked against him. Maluva's triumph at Smallstones wasn't just about a trophy; it was about solidifying his place at the top of the Zimbabwean pool.
Macement, with his reputation for unwavering precision, seemed to have the upper hand for most of the night.
He played with a cool, calculated demeanor that had many believing the outcome was a foregone conclusion. But Maluva, a fighter known for his resilience, refused to yield. Each shot he made was a testament to years of practice and a quiet, steely resolve.
Maluva admitted that a 4-3 deficit in a race to five in the final at one time gave him a huge scare of failing to be on the winner's podium.
“The most challenging time was the one I was trailing 4-3. At some point, I was out, but I kept hoping for my opponent to make that one mistake and give me a chance to go back on the table. Fortunately for me, the mistake was made, and I turned things around in different circumstances.
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“I try to stay calm, I always believe in myself, and I have the right people by my side to help me cope with pressure.
“It feels good, I have been working hard on the table, and it paid off. I am happy,” Maluva said.
For him, the victory is more than just a trophy; it's a launchpad for a whirlwind international schedule that will test his mettle on the global stage.
Just days after his local victory, Maluva is already packing his cue, with his sights set on the Cue Master's tournament in Tanzania this weekend and the Champions of Champions Heyball tournament in Brisbane, Australia, next month.
"Winning here in Chitungwiza gives him the confidence he needs. This is a great stepping stone. Tanzania is a new challenge, and it will be excellent preparation for what's to come in Brisbane. The goal is to make a name for himself, not just in Zimbabwe, but on the international circuit,” beamed Kelvin Matibhiri, who acts as Maluva’s manager.
Maluva’s journey from a Chitungwiza champion to a global contender is a story that has captured the imagination of local fans.
As he embarks on his ambitious tour, the entire nation will be watching, hoping to see their local hero translate his dominance into international success. The pool world, it seems, is about to learn the name Maluva.
