Phineas Mukwazo
WHEN Bulawayo and Harare giants Highlanders and Dynamos clash at Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday, the battle will not only be the traditional Battle for Zimbabwe, but a seal of approval for Zambian coach Kelvin Kaindu at both ends.
Unceremoniously shown the exit door by a hapless Highlanders leadership in June, Kaindu found a new home at their beleaguered old enemy Dynamos, who should have rubbed their hands with glee when they warmly welcomed him in their fold.
Ironically, it was a second bite of the cherry for the club as Kaindu was initially linked to Dynamos way back in 2014.
A Bosso son through and through, Kaindu played for Highlanders in the 1990s’ before coming in as coach from 2012 to 2014.
The unexpected crossover from Bosso to Dynamos, the Bulawayo giants’ sworn enemies, might have been a stunning blow, and a bitter pill to swallow for many amongst the Bosso followers.
Kaindu was shown the door following a string of “unsatisfactory” results.
He had managed one win in seven games, and then Highlanders were on position nine on the 18-team log standings after 17 matches.
Coincidentally, the placing hasn’t changed though Bosso are now on 35 points from 30 games.
Announcing Kaindu’s departure Highlanders expressed gratitude and wished him well.
“The club wishes coach Kelvin Kaindu the best in his future endeavors and thank him for his contribution during his time of service,” the club said in its valedictory remarks.
It appears those blessings are working in favour of Kaindu at his new home, while not much has changed at Bosso, save for a new coach.
At DeMbare Kaindu is yet to lose a match.
When he came to Dynamos, the Harare side were looking for a saviour, what with the relegation guillotine tightening on their necks, stuck second from the bottom of the log.
Kaindu made sure that they negotiated their way to safety, and are yet to lose a game since his arrival.
Dynamos now sits on position 15, tied with Chicken Inn, Bikita Minerals, Triangle and Manica Diamonds, and a win on Sunday will see them leap-frog Highlanders, who have 35 points.
While Highlanders haven’t won in their last five games, Dynamos boast of wins over title contenders Scottland FC and Caps United from the same number of games.
While fate couldn’t allow Kaindu to scale dizzier heights with his former club Highlanders, Sunday’s match might be the opportune time for him to prove the naysayers wrong at Bosso and silence any lingering doubts from the Blue half of the capital.
