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David Houghton appointed Zimbabwe head coach

Published

3 years ago

June 14, 2022

HARARE – Former Zimbabwe batter Dave Haughton has been appointed the side’s new head coach, ahead of next month’s T20 World Cup qualifier that will be held in the country.

The 64-year-old takes over from Lalchand Rajput, who will now assume a new role as technical director.

Rajput’s coaching contract was extended recently in March by Zimbabwe Cricket, but the board has now revamped the support staff.

Houghton had also coached Zimbabwe in the late 90s, and was at the helm during their memorable run to the Super Six stage of the 1999 World Cup in England, following memorable group-stage wins over India and South Africa.

Houghton has also had coaching gigs with Derbyshire, Middlesex among various other teams in English county cricket.

His most recent coaching stint was with Mountaineers in domestic cricket.

Houghton captained Zimbabwe in their inaugural Test against India in 1992, and scored a century on debut.

It was the first of four that he made in 22 Test matches, scoring 1464 runs in total at an average of 43.05.

His 266 against Sri Lanka in Bulawayo in 1994 remains Zimbabwe’s highest individual Test score.

Zimbabwe’s prep for the T20 World Cup qualifier is in some disarray – they were recently swept 3-0 at home by Afghanistan – but Hamilton Masakadza, the former batter and current director of cricket at ZC, hoped Houghton’s appointment would help reverse their fortunes.

“We are delighted to be bringing in Dave and we count ourselves fortunate and privileged to be able to appoint such a vastly experienced and highly respected head coach at a time we are looking to improve our on-field performances,” Masakadza said in a media statement.

Houghton will be assisted by Lance Klusener who has already rejoined Zimbabwe’s support staff as batting coach.

“With Lance having also bounced back as batting coach, we believe we now have a formidable technical team that can push for World Cup qualification and ensure our players put in consistently competitive performances,” Masakadza said.

“I would also like to thank Lalchand who has been in charge of the team for the past four years, an incredibly challenging period for our cricket.” – ESPN CRICKINFO

Related Topics:1999 World Cup in England Afghanistan Dave Haughton Derbyshire English county cricket Lalchand Rajput Middlesex

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National

Zimbabwe Republic Police officer faces charges for allegedly claiming to be ZRP boss

Published

4 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY STAFF REPORTER

A Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer appeared in court today facing charges of causing disaffection among police officers, procuring the use of a motor vehicle by fraud, and transmitting false data messages intending to cause harm.

Simbarashe Mandizvidza, an Assistant Inspector in the ZRP, was remanded in custody to Monday, when he will apply for bail.

According to the State, Mandizvidza on August 14, broadcast a video on his YouTube channel, Gondo Harishaye, claiming to be the head of the ZRP, despite knowing that Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba holds the position.

The State alleges that Mandizvidza’s actions were intended to cause disaffection among police officers, contrary to Section 30 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23.

Mandizvidza is also accused of procuring the use of a Ford Ranger vehicle by misrepresenting to Chief Inspector Chiteure that he had been instructed by Commissioner Makomo to use the vehicle for errands.

Furthermore, the State alleges that Mandizvidza transmitted false data messages on his YouTube channel, including claims that the ZRP Traffic section had been temporarily disbanded and that Chinese nationals must leave Zimbabwe within 48 hours.

The State indicated that it will oppose Mandizvidza’s bail application, citing the seriousness of the offenses and the need to protect the public interest.

The case continues on Monday.

In the community

Chief Mvutu installation underway

Published

15 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

Hwange District is bracing for a historic event today as Chief Mvutu is officially installed as the new substantive chief.

The installation ceremony, which comes eleven years after the passing of Silibaziso Mlotshwa’s father in 2014, is featuring speeches, entertainment, and traditional greetings.

According to the programme, the ceremony will commence with the arrival of invited guests, followed by the arrival of distinguished guests.

The event will feature speeches by various dignitaries, including Richard Moyo, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, and Senator Chief Mtshane Khumalo, President of the National Council of Chiefs.

Other highlights of the ceremony include the investiture of Chief Mvutu, the paying of allegiance by village heads, and the presentation of gifts.

The installation ceremony marks a significant milestone in the district’s history, bringing to an end a protracted dispute over the chieftainship.

The event is expected to attract dignitaries, community leaders, and residents from across the district.

In the community

Nkayi man in court for alleged rape of minor

Published

15 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

A 28-year-old man from Nkayi appeared before the Nkayi Magistrates’ Court, facing charges of raping his 15-year-old niece.

The prosecution alleges that the incident occurred on July 28, 2025, in a secluded bushy area. The accused is said to have sexually assaulted the minor after she refused his advances.

The matter was reported to the authorities, leading to the accused’s arrest. He has been remanded in custody pending his next court appearance.

The case has been referred to the Bulawayo Regional Court for further proceedings, with the accused set to appear on August 26.