Sundowns’ Zimbabwe tour called off?

The proposed three-team tournament is scheduled for July 19 and 20 with Zimbabwe champions Dynamos and Highlanders participating.

But Premier Soccer League chief executive officer Kennedy Ndebele says their programme is full and allowing such a tournament will make the situation even worse.

“We have a new tournament that has come on board. We also started the season late due to the CHAN tournament. Our sponsors will not be happy to see us playing friendly matches over the weekend while playing league matches in midweek where interest is less,” Ndebele told KickOff.com.

The Zimbabwe PSL supremo says they have planned their programme in such a manner that it should end on December 20 and nothing will make them change that arrangement.

“Normally we end our season before November 30. But this year we are finishing our programme on December 20 and we cannot go beyond that due to friendly matches,” adds Ndebele.

Ironically, Zimbabwe PSL chairman Twine Phiri had given the tournament the go-ahead following a meeting with the clubs’ representatives.

The South African club was represented by manager Peter Nldovu while secretary general Webster Chikengezha stood in for Dynamos, with Bosso chief executive officer Ndumiso Gumede coming in for the Bulawayo giants.

Sundowns wanted to use the matches to fine-tune their preparations for the forthcoming season. The Brazilians will be fighting on two fronts as they seek to defend their domestic championship while at the same time also try to win the CAF Champions League.

On the other hand, Dynamos and Highlanders were looking forward to benefiting financially from the visit of the popular South African club.

Apart from Ndlovu, the Brazilians also have other Zimbabweans – Khama Billiat, Nyasha Mushekwi, Cuthbert Malajila and Esrom Nyandodo – on their books.

Last year, Sundowns toured Zimbabwe and won all their games against Dynamos, Caps United and Highlanders. KickOff.com