PSL to Probe Ngezi Coach Chiragwi After Shocking Player Assault

Ngezi Platinum Stars have suspended their head coach, Takesure Chiragwi, following an incident in which he allegedly slapped one of his players during a heated 1-1 draw with Dynamos earlier this month.

The altercation, which was captured on video, occurred at Rufaro Stadium after Dynamos scored an equaliser. In a moment of frustration, Chiragwi appeared to strike midfielder McDonald Makuwe, who had been trying to calm him down. The clash temporarily disrupted play as match officials and teammates intervened to defuse the situation.

Public criticism quickly followed, prompting Chiragwi to step down from his position as Warriors assistant coach the next day.

Soon after, a letter allegedly from Makuwe circulated, claiming the physical contact had been accidental. However, the statement failed to convince many supporters, who accused Ngezi of protecting the coach from disciplinary action.

Under mounting pressure, the club has since handed Chiragwi a three-match suspension, barring him from team training sessions and matchday duties. Assistant coach Kumbirayi Mutiwekuziva will take over until Chiragwi’s scheduled return for the final fixture of the season against MWOS at Ngoni Stadium.

Club spokesperson Roberta Katunga confirmed the suspension but said the team would not comment further while the Premier Soccer League (PSL) disciplinary process is ongoing.

“We are unable to comment on this issue at the moment as it is before a PSL disciplinary hearing,” said Katunga. “We respect the league’s procedures and will wait for the outcome.”

The disciplinary hearing is set for October 28 at the PSL offices, where both Chiragwi and the club will answer to charges of violent and disorderly conduct and bringing the game into disrepute.

The timing of the suspension is far from ideal for Ngezi, who currently sit fourth on the table with 51 points, trailing league leaders Scottland by eight, with only four games remaining. Simba Bhora and MWOS occupy second and third place with 56 and 55 points respectively.

Despite the controversy, Ngezi remain in contention for a top-three finish. They are unbeaten in their last five matches, earning 11 points from a possible 15, and still face crucial encounters against both Simba Bhora and MWOS direct title rivals.

Katunga emphasized that the team’s focus remains steady despite the setback.

“Our priority is maintaining unity within the squad, ensuring player welfare, and continuing our strong performances on the pitch,” she said.