Stars Zimbabwe lost

WHETHER it is cricket, rugby, golf, soccer or any other sport, matches featuring national teams always bring people together.
As they dance and rejoice at stadiums, huddle around the television or listen to live radio broadcasts, families, friends and relatives are brought together and passionately cheer their team on, hoping for a victory that has the power to galvanise a nation.
As they proudly sing the national anthem while looking at the flag, the players — adorned in the national colours of the country — become the focal point of the supporters.
They carry the hopes of their nation and major tournaments often bring out a sense of patriotism not only for them, but their legion of supporters.
Ironically there are many players that have opted not to play for their countries of birth. The country were they learnt the sport that has made them famous and earned them comfortable lives.
The nation in which a player represents is often a subject of debate. Every player has a story to defend their decision if they decide against playing for their country of birth. The majority however opt for a country that strengthens their chances of winning international honours, give them exposure, and increase their balance sheets or where sports associations have a record of being run professionally and bringing out the best in players.
Zimbabwe is no exception. The country has lost established players who were born, grew up and learnt the sport here before choosing to represent other countries for different reasons.
These include Brain Mujati, Tonderai Chavhanga and Tendai Mtawarira who wore the South African rugby team — Springboks