Ngezi Platinum Stars suspend coach Takesure Chiragwi after slapping player

Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League side Ngezi Platinum Stars have reportedly suspended head coach Takesure Chiragwi after he was seen slapping one of his players during a recent league encounter.

The incident, which occurred a few weeks ago in a clash against Dynamos FC, involved midfielder McDonald Makuwe.

According to multiple reports, tensions escalated on the bench after Dynamos scored a controversial equaliser that the Platinum Stars bench believed should not have stood.

In a heated protest against the decision, Chiragwi confronted the match officials before Makuwe stepped in to restrain him. The coach, however, reacted by slapping the player in full view of spectators and television cameras.

According to The Herald Online, the club has since suspended Chiragwi for three matches while the Premier Soccer League’s disciplinary committee conducts a formal investigation into the matter.

When contacted, club communications officer Roberta Katunga declined to confirm the details of the suspension, citing the ongoing disciplinary process.

“We are unable to comment on this matter at this stage as it is pending a PSL disciplinary hearing,” Katunga said.

“We respect the league’s processes and will await the outcome before making any further statements.

“Our focus remains on maintaining team cohesion and welfare and continuing our strong performance on the field.”

The suspension marks a turbulent period for Ngezi Platinum Stars, who have otherwise been among the league’s more consistent sides this season.