SRC Cracks Down On Alleged Nepotism Rocking Zimbabwe Cricket Team Selection (2025)
Due to grave concerns about bias, nepotism, regionalism, and tribalism in the national team selection process, the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) has opened an official investigation into Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC). This investigation was prompted by a petition submitted on July 31 that pointed to Zimbabwe’s sharp performance drop as proof of pervasive problems with the selection process.
The complaint was filed with the SRC, the Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture, and the International Cricket Council (ICC) by the petitioner, Paidamwoyo Madondo, a Zimbabwean data analyst and U.S.-based attorney. A previously undisclosed 2023 Inquiry Committee study, headed by Lloyd Mhishi, that examined Zimbabwe’s inability to earn a spot in major ICC events was also mentioned by him. Madondo called for the public release of this report.
Madondo’s petition highlights troubling selection patterns: despite their poor stats, players like Wessly Madhevere, Wellington Masakadza, Trevor Gwandu, and Newman Nyamhuri have been called up to the national team. According to reports, notable players such as the Campbell brothers, Brad Evans, Ainsley Ndlovu, and Ernest Masuku were unfairly left out.
Zimbabwe Cricket Team Saga
A leaked audio clip of legendary fast bowler Tendai Chatara was another shocking piece of evidence that stoked popular indignation. Chatara accused selectors David Mutendera and Elton Chigumbura of ignoring merit in the recording. He charged Chigumbura of promoting Nyamhuri and Gwandu, two players from his own academy, to the national team too quickly.
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Additionally, fans have taken action: a large number of people have signed an online petition calling for the dismissal of selectors such as Mutendera. Critics contend that the existing system stifles genuine talent by favouring particular areas and social networks above performance.
SRC Director-General Eltah Nengomasha responded by confirming that a comprehensive inquiry is in progress and that Madondo, the petitioner, will be notified of the results when they are available.
