BY SPORTSCAST WRITER
HARARE – Zimbabwean football poster-boy Khama Billiat has immediately been recalled to the national team just hours after announcing on Wednesday that he had come out of international retirement.
The 34-year-old skilful playmaker, who quit international football at the end of 2021 to concentrate on his club commitments, has made a comeback after being convinced to return by Zimbabwe’s new coach Michael Nees.
“I feel I still have something to give to Zimbabwean football, locally and internationally,” Billiat wrote earlier on Wednesday in a personal statement.
“I have been reflecting deeply, and I’m convinced there is one chapter which remains unfinished – between Khama Billiat and the Zimbabwe national football team. I have reconsidered my decision to retire and would love to represent my country once more. I will continue to work hard on the field and hopefully help the nation in a positive way. I love my country add stand ready to serve if afforded a chance.”
German gaffer Nees was quick to include Billiat into his squad to face Kenya and Cameroon in two Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Uganda early September.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) is thrilled to announce the return of Khama Billiat to the Warriors squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Kenya and Cameroon, slated for September,” Zimbabwe’s FA’s said in an official statement.
“Following fruitful discussions between Khama Billiat and head coach Michael Nees, the dynamic forward has been officially added to the national team squad, which was initially announced on Monday.”
Billiat has been in fine scoring form for Zimbabwean top-flight club Yadah FC, having decided to return home at the beginning of the year after opting not to renew his contract with South African giants Kaizer Chiefs.
