Orlando Pirates reluctantly release Zimbabwe international

By Agencies

Orlando Pirates have expressed their surprise at Terrence Dzvukamanja’s decision to join DStv Premiership rivals SuperSport United after claiming he wanted to return to Zimbabwe.

The Buccaneers had hoped the 29-year-old striker would agree new terms at the Orlando Stadium following the expiry of his contract at the end of June.

However, Dzvukamanja begged to be released so that he could go back home in order to be closer to his family, with Pirates happy to grant his request on compassionate grounds.

The Soweto giants were then shocked to hear that Matsatsantsa had approached the Zimbabwe international on Monday and they have begrudgingly allowed him to depart for Pretoria.

“Dzvukamanja approached the club pleading to be released to play in Zimbabwe to be close to home in order to address pressing family matters,” a statement from the Sea Robbers read.

“After consideration, the club offered to pay his salary while sorting out his personal issues at home. The club acceded to this on compassionate grounds.

“As part of the club’s commitment to players’ welfare, Orlando Pirates makes an effort to, where possible, meet the players’ requests in circumstances that help among other things, their mental wellbeing.

“The club was therefore surprised by an approach from SuperSport United for the player’s services since the club had made plans to include the player in their CAF Champions League squad.

“With this new development, the club will release Dzvukamanja to SuperSport United.”

Bucs signed Dzvukamanja from the now-defunct Bidvest Wits in September 2020 and he went on to make 76 appearances across all competitions, scoring 12 goals in the process.