HARARE – A leaked audio recording has revealed Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) president Losson Mtongwiza ‘blasting’ national women’s rugby team, the Lady Sables, over issues related to unpaid match fees.
In the recording, Mtongwiza is heard telling the players bluntly: “If you are here to be paid, don’t come again! We’re not here to pay people. If we don’t have money, we don’t owe you anything!”
This outburst follows reports that players were not paid for recent matches.
Furthermore, Mtongwiza said payments would only be made upon the return of team equipment.
“We will only give you your money when the kit is returned. No kit, no money,” he said.
In a shocking escalation, Mtongwiza reportedly threatened the players with lifetime bans should they speak out or share the incident publicly.
“If you post anything, write to your friends or go to social media… we will ban you for life. Not for a year. Not two months—LIFE!”
Other than giving players paltry allowances, ZRU also charged US$35 for the green blazers which the players wore on duty.
