Warriors striker Nyasha Mushekwi’s absence has presented coach Kalisto Pasuwa with a headache, as he has to choose a replacement from a number of talented players.
BY HENRY MHARA
The China-based striker was well-placed to start the Warriors’ 2017 African Cup of Nations Goup L qualifier against Malawi at the National Sports Stadium on Sunday had he been available, but his absence has opened the door for fellow strikers Tendai Ndoro, Evans Rusike and Cuthbert Malajila.
On current form, Rusike shades his competition, but Ndoro has been hitting the headlines of late, with some good performances.
Rusike’s debut season in the South African Premiership for Maritzburg United has been nothing short of exceptional.
The 25-year-old striker is fast, hardworking and talented and his goal tally of nine for a team which spent most of its time fighting relegation until the last day of the season, when his brace secured the Team of Choice’s status, is proof of his proficiency.
With that performance, he was voted Team of Choice Player of the Season, in addition to winning the team’s golden boot award.
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However, the former Hwange striker’s inexperience on this stage could be his undoing, having received his first senior cap as a substitute in the Warriors’ last home qualifier against Swaziland in March, in a match he scored.
His work rate, combined with goal-scoring prowess, has seen big clubs in South Africa jostling for his signature.
As for Ndoro, he successfully pushed his case for a return to the Warriors squad following a good run of form for Orlando Pirates in the just-ended season.
After initially struggling to get into the Pirates starting line-up, he became a regular once he got his chance, scoring five times in 10 matches.
He was nominated for the Nedbank Player of the Tournament award, with an impressive return of five goals in four matches.
Then there is Malajila.
Many might question if the Sundowns striker was worthy of a place in the squad to begin with, following a below-par season blighted by injuries.
Despite having proven to be a reliable goalscorer for Sundowns, Malajila endured a frustrating season last term, making just five starts and eight substitute appearances, and only scoring just two goals.
But Pasuwa is a big fan of the striker.
Maybe it is his old-fashioned work rate that wins Malajila favour, but whatever the case, his inclusion in the squad has somewhat complicated matters for Pasuwa, who is now faced with a selection headache.
The gaffer may also opt to go with Knowledge Musona as the main striker, as he is also has many options on the wings and the number 10 role.
