Underperforming Kaindu reaches for Bosso reset button

Highlanders FC head coach Kelvin Kaindu is viewing the current international break as a valuable opportunity to regroup, refocus, and revive the team's fortunes after a turbulent start to their Castle Lager Premier Soccer League campaign.

The league has paused until June 13 due to the FIFA international match window, during which Zimbabwe's national team, the Warriors, are scheduled to play friendly matches in Morocco. While international fixtures dominate headlines abroad, Kaindu and his technical team are hard at work behind the scenes, using the time to make crucial tactical and physical adjustments.

"The break gives you a few days to work on areas that need improvement," said Kaindu. "It also gives you more time to condition your team both physically and psychologically."

Highlanders head into the break ninth on the log with 19 points from 14 games, trailing unbeaten league leaders MWOS FC by 11 points. Simba Bhora occupy second place with 26 points, and Bosso's recent form has left fans concerned.

The Bulawayo giants are winless in their last three matches, having suffered a 2–1 loss to ZPC Kariba, a 1–0 defeat to Herentals, and a 1–1 draw with bitter rivals Dynamos. Despite showing glimpses of quality, Kaindu's men have struggled to maintain consistency.

The coach believes the pause will act as a reset button for the squad, helping players shake off fatigue and minor injuries while giving the technical bench time to retool ahead of a demanding run of fixtures.

The break also coincides with the mid-season transfer window, which runs from July 1 to 31, and Kaindu confirmed that the club is actively scouting to bolster the team's depth.

"As for the window, it's either you lose or gain players," he said. "We've identified a few young players and hopefully we'll have a closer look at them during this period."

When league action resumes, Highlanders will face a stern test at home against defending champions Simba Bhora at Barbourfields Stadium. That will be followed by a tricky away trip to Manica Diamonds, before they round off the first half of the season with a Bulawayo derby against Chicken Inn.

With the title race heating up and pressure mounting from fans, Kaindu will be hoping that the international break provides just the right spark to reignite Highlanders' campaign.