Tawanda ‘Budz’ Mpariwa has urged his buddy Brian Vitori to stay ‘strong’ and ‘patient’ as the embattled left arm bowler ponders the next move after a 12 month suspension from bowling in international cricket.

The 26-year-old Vitori’s bowling action was called illegal two-times in 2016, first in February and then in June resulting in a ban.

“(I urge him) to keep his head up, take a bit of time from bowling for about a month or two,” said Mpariwa.

The former national team cricket player is now based in Australia where he is paying for Newton Cricket Club.

“He (Vitori) also has lots of potential with the bat (he could) put some thought into that, but he has to take his time and not rush, he has 12 months.

“He has to stay strong, patient and allow God to walk the journey with him.”

Vitori is the third Zimbabwean bowler to be reported for a suspect bowling action after Prosper Utseya (2014) and Malcolm Waller in 2015.

“It has been good, the cricket is very competitive, national team and (Sheffield) shield players play first grade cricket, guys like (George) Bailey, (Tim) Paine, (James) Faulkner to name a few.

“I am happy with where my life and cricket is at, “said the 30-year-old who is on a five –year-contract with his club.