Zimbabwe has made a special request to COSAFA to register thirty players for the regional tournament which starts today in Durban, South Africa.

The technical team, led by coach Sunday Chidzambwa, dropped four players from the provisional squad including goalkeeper George Chigova.

Kuda Mahachi, Danny Phiri and China-based striker Nyasha Mushekwi who is only available in June complete the list of players not going to the tournament.

According to The Herald, Team Manager Wellington Mpandare confirmed the decision to drop the first choice, national goalkeeper, saying:

“Chigova will not play the COSAFA Cup. Since COSAFA is part of our preparations for the AFCON tournament, the idea is to give the other goalkeepers game time.

“Remember George is suspended for the opening match against Egypt, so it has to be one of the other goalkeepers to take his place in the match against Egypt.

“We have four goalkeepers in camp and, like what the coach said, players will be rotated at COSAFA and it makes sense to give these guys the game time in preparation for the big tournament,” said Mpandare.

The other three keepers on the list – Edmore Sibanda, Elvis Chipezeze and Talbert Shumba will do duty at the Cosafa.