HARARE — Warriors assistant coach and Ngezi Platinum Stars head coach Takesure Chiragwi has stepped away from the national team setup in disgrace after he was caught on live television striking one of his own players during Saturday’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match against Dynamos FC at Rufaro Stadium.
The incident, which occurred on the technical bench, has triggered widespread condemnation from fans, football stakeholders, and rights groups.
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has since launched a formal inquiry into the matter.
“The incident was broadcast live on ZBC Jive TV … where he appears to be assaulting his own player on the technical area,” PSL Communications and Media Liaison Officer Kudzai Bare said in a statement on Saturday evening.
“Whilst the league currently awaits all the official match reports, we have requested the club to also submit a detailed report on the incident to enable the league to establish the facts surrounding this incident.”
The PSL stressed that the safety and welfare of all participants in the game remain a top priority.
Chiragwi on Sunday issued a lengthy apology to the player involved, McDonald Makuwe, as well as to his club, the national association, and supporters.
“I wish to sincerely and unreservedly apologise for my regrettable conduct … my actions on the touchline, which were broadcast live, were wholly inappropriate and unbecoming of a coach, leader, and representative of our game,” Chiragwi said.
In what he described as “a step to allow disciplinary procedures to take place without prejudice,” the 41-year-old coach announced that he was stepping down from his Warriors duties ahead of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
“I will cooperate fully with the investigations by the PSL and any other relevant authorities and accept whatever outcome or sanction is deemed appropriate,” he added.
The PSL’s disciplinary process is ongoing, while Ngezi Platinum Stars are also expected to submit their own report. ZIFA is yet to announce a replacement for Chiragwi ahead of the qualifiers.
The incident has overshadowed Ngezi’s league campaign and left Chiragwi’s future in Zimbabwean football uncertain.
