Bata Stadium gets approval

Gweru (New Ziana) –The ZIFA First Instance Board (FIB) has approved the use of Bata Stadium, the home ground for Sheasham Football Club, for hosting Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) matches.

The approval is the second this year after the first one was reversed by the PSL about three weeks ago, a move that was condemned by a number of stakeholders and fans who felt the league had usurped the powers of ZIFA.

Sheasham chairperson Reginald Chidawanyika confirmed the development saying: “The FIB came yesterday (Tuesday) and was satisfied with everything that they saw.”

Chidawanyika said his team was elated by the latest development as it would give them some advantage.

“There is no gainsaying about the fact that playing in front of our fans will be tremendous. The connection and chemistry will push the players on,” he said.

“We are short on points and we need to address that. It’s really a lift to everybody associated with Sheasham.”

Affectionately known as the Construction Boys, the PSL debutants will host Herentals this Saturday and will seek to capitalise on home advantage.

The approval of Bata Stadium comes hot on the hills of the nod of Nyamhunga Stadium in Kariba, which is the home of Zimbabwe Power Company Kariba.

The FIB is still to approve Sakubva Stadium in Mutare to be used by Manica Diamonds, and Shamva Stadium in Mashonaland Central the proposed home of Simba Bhora.

The reversal of Bata Stadium had seen a flurry of correspondence between Sheasham and the PSL in a bid to find a lasting solution.

Sheasham last week conducted a media tour of Bata Stadium where vice president Happiness Dziva said his team had worked on all issues raised by both the PSL and ZIFA.

The team hosted giants Highlanders in the stadium’s first competitive match after the US$500 000 refurbishment before its approval was reversed.

New Ziana