Zim sides roll into Botswana for pre-season
Mqondisi Dube | Monday March 2, 2026 06:00
Simba Bhora, a team that has already used Obed Itani Chilume as its homeground during last season's CAF Champions League, were the first to arrive as they fine-tune for Zimbabwe's Premier League season, which starts in March.
They are led by former Masitaoka, Nico United and TAFIC coach, Mandla Mpofu. Whilst in Botswana, Simba Bhora played against First Division side Dinare and won 2-1. They beat Township Rollers 2-0 in their first match in the country following their arrival on January 25.
Next up was Hardrock, Zimbabwe Premier League's new boys, who arrived two weeks ago and were based at the Royal Aria Complex.
The team watched the FNB Premiership match between Black Lions and BDF XI on Sunday at the invitation of Tendani Sebata's side.
Hardrock flew back to Zimbabwe yesterday, and as they departed, popular giants, Highlanders, arrived in Gaborone for their pre-season tour.
Highlanders are Zimbabwe's oldest club and regularly played Botswana sides, particularly Township Rollers, in the 1990s as part of their preseason preparations.
It is unclear which sides Highlanders will face, particularly since all Zimbabwe sides arrive in Botswana at a time when the season is in full swing. Zimbabwe still maintains the March to November calendar, flowing against the tide in the region, which has adopted the August to May schedule.
Botswana Football Association (BFA) president, Tariq Babitseng, hailed the arrival of Zimbabwe sides.
'They are home away from home,' he said briefly.