Benjani handed a performance-based contract

Highlanders coach Benjani Mwaruwari has been placed under intense scrutiny after being handed a performance-based contract by the Bulawayo giants. The agreement, which ties his tenure to specific results, requires Mwaruwari to collect a set number of points within the first five games of the season. Should he fall short, the club has allowed a grace period extending to 10 games to turn around the situation. Failure to meet the targets could result in termination.

Club CEO Denzel Mkandla told Zimpapers Sports Hub that the performance clauses are fully agreed upon by both the coach and the club's sponsor, emphasizing the team's independence in decision-making. "This is our position as Highlanders. We are independent in making our decisions as we strive to advance the club's vision," Mkandla said. "The sponsor made it clear that he has no intention of owning Highlanders or taking over control; he is a sponsor and wants to stick to just that."

While Mkandla declined to disclose the exact points target, he stressed that the club's aim is to finish the season in the top five. "A coach like Mwaruwari, someone who played the game locally and abroad, has an in-depth understanding of what we want," Mkandla said. "It has been years since we last bagged silverware, and we hope that having been attached to better clubs abroad and coaching Ngezi before, he has something to offer."

Despite the pressure, Mkandla assured that the club is fully behind the new coach and committed to providing support. Highlanders have also been bolstered off the pitch, receiving a US$300 000 financial injection and a new team bus from philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo, which is expected to ease operational constraints and strengthen the squad.

Mkandla highlighted the importance of proper preparation ahead of the season, noting that the technical team is actively engaged in reinforcing the squad. "We are currently ensuring that the team has the best preseason so that when the campaign gets underway, they will be in the best form," he said. "This time we have everything in place, and we are also busy on the market, guided by the technical team as we bolster our squad."

As Highlanders prepare for the season, all eyes will be on Mwaruwari to see if his international experience and local knowledge translate into results on the pitch.