SRC Probes Zimbabwe Cricket Over Bias and Nepotism in Team Selection
The Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) has opened an investigation into claims that Zimbabwe Cricket’s national team selections are tainted by bias, nepotism, regionalism, and tribalism.
The move follows a petition filed on July 31 by US-based Zimbabwean data analyst and lawyer, Paidamwoyo Madondo. He accuses ZC of undermining merit-based selection, leading to what he describes as the “systemic decline” of the national teams. The complaint was also sent to the Minister of Sport and the International Cricket Council (ICC).
SRC Probes Zimbabwe Cricket Over Bias and Nepotism in Team Selection
Madondo argued that Zimbabwe’s cricket decline is clear for all to see — pointing to embarrassing defeats by countries with limited cricket history, like Uganda, and consistent losses to Namibia, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Scotland. He also highlighted the Lady Chevrons’ defeats to Nigeria and Vanuatu as evidence of poor talent management.
He called on the SRC to release the findings of a 2023 inquiry led by lawyer Lloyd Mhishi into Zimbabwe’s failure to qualify for the ICC Men’s World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup. That report, despite being completed, has never been made public.
Allegations Against Officials and Selectors
Madondo also accused ZC Under-19 team manager Frank Mawoza of insulting fans on social media when they questioned selection decisions — allegedly calling them “Rhodies” or “house negroes.”
He further claimed that certain players, including Trevor Gwandu, Newman Nyamhuri, Wellington Masakadza, and Wessly Madhevere, are repeatedly chosen ahead of others with better statistics, such as Ernest Masuku, Brad Evans, Matthew and, Johnathan Campbell, Alister Frost, and Matthew Welch. In his view, some players are being “fast-tracked” without proving themselves, while consistent performers are sidelined.
Madondo also raised conflict-of-interest concerns, pointing to former captain Elton Chigumbura’s multiple roles, as Zimbabwe U19 coach, Takashinga Cricket Club coach, and head of his own cricket academy, which, he said, could influence player selections in favour of his own trainees.
In his petition, Madondo demanded a full, independent, and public probe into ZC’s selection process, saying cricket fans should not have to endure poor decision-making from the same people who disappointed on the field during their playing careers.
Responding on August 5, SRC director-general Eltah Nengomasha confirmed that investigations will be carried out to verify the claims. She assured Madondo that the results would be shared once the probe is complete.
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