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Posted to the web: 17/03/2009 00:32:45
ZIFA and the Premier Soccer League (PSL) were locked in a bitter fight last night over two friendly matches organised for the national team in Bahrain.

ZIFA have lined up two friendlies on Wednesday and Thursday, but PSL clubs are not keen to release their players ahead of the opening matches for the new season on Saturday in the Persian Gulf country.

ZIFA chairman Tendai Madzorera said: “The friendlies are part of the coach’s strategy of keeping the team together. The coach needs friendlies to try out the various combinations as he builds his team in preparation for 2012 World Cup qualifiers.”

Mdzorera maintained the players would be back before the weekend, but clubs say most of the returning players will be too tired to feature.

PSL chairman Tapiwa Matangaidze said clubs had agreed not to release players for the matches.

“We have not been officially approached on the matter and are therefore not in a position to comment on this issue. As far as we are concerned, FIFA arranges weekends for friendly matches and this weekend is not one of those set aside by FIFA,” Matangaidze said.

“At a meeting on Saturday, all the clubs resolved that they will not release their players for the friendlies. It was felt that the ad hoc approach to the friendlies will disrupt preparation for the start of the season.”

A 25-member delegation comprising 18 players and 6 members from the technical team headed by ZIFA board member Gladmore Muzambi was expected to leave on Tuesday, although the trip appeared unlikely.

It is likely Chidzambwa will stick with the players that did duty in the Africa Nations Championships in Ivory Coast.

2009 SEASON OPENING MATCHES:

March 21-22 fixtures

Black Rhinos v Lengthens

CAPS United v Hwange

Highlanders v Gunners

Kiglon v Shooting Stars

Monomotapa v Highway

Motor Action v Eagles

Njube Sundowns v Bantu Rovers

Underhill v Dynamos
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