ZIMBABWE’S Knowledge Musona has scooped the South African Premier Soccer League’s rookie of the year award, taking home a cheque of R50,000 after his impressive maiden season in the 2009/2010 campaign with Kaizer Chiefs.

The Zimbabwean international beat Bafana Bafana's future stars Andile Jali (Orlando Pirates), Siyanda Xulu, Matthew Pattison both of Mamelodi Sundowns, Sibusiso Vilakazi (Wits), Auguston Leonard of Moroka Swallows and SuperSport United pair of Thandani Tshumayelo and Thabo Mongala.

The 20-year-old helped the Soweto giants to a third place finish in the league and victory in the Telkom Knockout final over Ajax Cape Town scoring a goal in the 2-1 victory to win his first major trophy in his first season in the Premiership.

Musona scored five times in 21 appearances and is seen as the leading striker for the Amakhosi going into the new season which starts in August.

In winning this award, the Chiefs young striker emulated his countryman and Mamelodi Sundowns captain Esrom Nyandoro, who won it in the 2004/2005 season.

The Zimbabwean was modest in receiving recognition for his talents and Musona thanked his teammates and the club for the support throughout the season.

"I want to thank my teammates and the club for this award. It's nothing much, I will just continue to play my normal football I will give it two more seasons with Chiefs and hopefully earn a move to Europe to play in some of the top leagues in the world," said Musona.

"I'm happy with what I've given to a big club like Chiefs. I want to use them as a platform to climb the greatest stage of world football which is to help my country qualify for the World Cup one day."

Musona had different striking partners last season, but this time he has former Free State Stars goal poacher Sthembiso Ngcobo. Musona heaped praise on his new striker partner.

"I haven't played with him before because he is new to the team but we're hoping to adapt before the new season begins I believe that he is a good player.

"He will also use his height to his advantage. I'm looking forward to playing alongside him in the coming season. I think he is going to add more depth to our striking department.