Kuda Mahachi, Evans Rusike back in Zimbabwe squad for final Afcon qualifier

Orlando Pirates winger Kudakwashe Mahachi and SuperSport United forward Evans Rusike have made a comeback to the Zimbabwe squad to face Congo Brazzaville in the final Afcon qualifier at home on March 24.

Mahachi was frozen out of the squad and missed the previous four games due to loss of form, while Rusike did not travel to Liberia in the last match owing to injury.

Also back in the Zimbabwe squad is Nottingham Forest defender Tendayi Darikwa, who was suspended for the Liberia tie after accumulating two yellow cards.

Receiving a debut call-up was Germany-based Kelly Lunga while Leicester City U-23 forward Admiral Muskwe could feature in his maiden competitive match for Zimbabwe after being included.

Baroka FC goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze was a surprise omission from the squad despite enjoying some good club form. Zimbabwe lead Group G and need at least a draw against Congo Brazzaville to book a place at Egypt 2019 and their fourth Afcon overal appearance.

Zimbabwe squad; Goalkeepers: Chigova George (Polokwane City), Sibanda Edmore (Witbank Spurs), Mhari Petros (FC Platinum).

Defenders: Lunga Divine (Lamontville Golden Arrows), Munetsi Marshall (Orlando Pirates), Hadebe Teenage (Kaizer Chiefs), Mudimu Alec (CEFN Druids), Darikwa Tendayi (Nottingham Forest), Dzingai Jimmy (Power Dynamos), Pfumbidzai Ronald (Bloemfontein Celtic), Murwira Godknows (FC Platinum).

Midfielders: Kutinyu Tafadzwa (Azam), Hachiro Richard (Herentals), Nakamba Marvelous (Club Brugge KV), Mahachi Kudakwashe (Orlando Pirates), Mavunga Leeroy (Yadah Stars), Musona Knowledge (KSC Lokeren Oost-Vlaanderen), Karuru Ovidy (Amazulu), Ncube Butholezwe (Amazulu), Lunga Kelvin (SV Rodinghausen), Billiat Khama (Kaizer Chiefs), Phiri Danny (Lamontville Golden Arrows), Chawapihwa Talent (Amazulu).

Forwards Kadewere Tinotenda (Le Havre AC) Rusike Evans (SuperSport United) Muskwe Admiral (Leicester City) Mutizwa Knox (Golden Arrows) Amidu Abbas (Arar).