Highlanders youth player overpaid by US$7,000

Highlanders Football Club treasurer Nkani Khoza has stunned club members after revealing that youth player Simbarashe Madzivire has received more than US$7 000 in overpayments under his contract, despite never featuring in the club's senior team.

Madzivire, considered one of the standout prospects from Highlanders' 2022 youth intake, is yet to establish himself at first-team level and has never been named in a senior match-day squad. However, financial records presented to members show that he is on a senior team contract, earning US$450 per month and is also entitled to a residential housing stand.

Khoza's disclosure has sparked serious concern among club members, who questioned how such payments could be made without the player making a single senior appearance. The revelation has brought the club's administrative and payroll systems under scrutiny, with members demanding urgent explanations.

Calls have also been made for tighter financial controls and improved oversight to prevent similar incidents in the future, as stakeholders seek accountability and transparency in the management of the Bulawayo giants' resources.

The club is yet to issue a detailed statement on how the overpayments occurred or what corrective measures will be taken.