Zimbabwe’s international friendly against the Steval Pumas of South Africa was on Wednesday night in doubt with players threatening not to travel to Bulawayo for the Friday night game over allowances.

Zimbabwe will play as the Presidents XV as this is not a Test match since they are playing a provincial side.

Director of rugby Brighton Chivandire on Wednesday evening attended the Zimbabwe training session at Old Hararians Sports Club where he held an “inconclusive” meeting with the players and the technical team.

Chivandire watches as  Zimbabwe train – Pictures by John Manzongo

“There was nothing conclusive that came out of the meeting but as players seriously we will not travel to Bulawayo if we do not reach a concrete deal with the Union tomorrow (this) morning at Old Hararians.

“We are owed allowances from the previous games dating back to a number of years but the sad part is that neither the (Zimbabwe Rugby Union) president (John Falkenberg) and (chief executive) Colleen (de Jong) want to come and face us for a clear position.

“We just have to wait and see tomorrow but without the money, then we will not travel to Bulawayo,” said the players.

This puts coach Cyprian “Supa” Mandenge between a hard place and a rock as he already has a depleted sqiuad compared to what he was hoping to have as most of the players have either not responded to the call-up or were withdrawn.

As a precautionary measure, Cheetahs players were withdrawn from the President XV squad as the Sevens side is set to take part in a crucial World Sevens Series core qualifier in three weeks’ time.

But Mandenge feels he will have to go with the players at his disposal and will not call anymore players to the squad he already has.

“At least our objective is being met and that is to have game time and see the other young guys,” said Mandenge.

However, scrummy Taddy Hwata sat out of yesterday’s training session at Old Hararians complaining of a rib injury while winger Tangai Nemadire pulled out of the training session due to a groin problem.

Taddy Whata (left) and Tangai Nemadire sit-out during Wednesday’s training session due to injuries

“Those were just minor knocks and twitches and I am sure they will be good for the game,” said Mandenge.