Ex-Pirates star Tendai Ndoro exonarates ex-wife

Former Orlando Pirates striker Tendai Ndoro has exonerated his ex-wife, Thando Maseko, who was criticised for leading the talented striker astray.

Ndoro is trying to find his feet again after struggling with his health and losing his assets after his divorce.

He has also amplified anti-drug abuse talk, urging budding footballers to desist from substance abuse if they are to prosper in the game.

The 37-year-old hogged the limelight last year after reports suggested that he was struggling with finances following a nasty divorce with Thando Maseko.

At the moment, the former Highlands Park striker is on a recovery path after becoming partially blind and enduring a massive weight loss.

And as his renaissance continues after the painful ordeal, Ndoro has taken the time to advise budding footballers.

He was speaking during the Sports Gist show on Tuesday.

“I don’t want to wish anyone to be in the same situation that I was because it was terrible.

“I’m grateful to God that I managed to recover. So, I urge the upcoming players to pray and stay away from drugs as well,” Ndoro said.

As he explained the ordeal, Ndoro revealed that his life took a downward spiral because of spiritual attacks. 

“I want to urge people to be responsible when they say things about another person,” he said.

“What people were saying is not true; I want to clear umtwana wabantu. Thando Maseko is not responsible for everything that happened to me. We had a peaceful divorce. 

“People should not say things they don’t have knowledge about because we lost so many people because they killed themselves because of lies that were written or said about them.”

Interestingly, the former Chicken Inn forward is eager for one last dance before officially hanging his boots.

Previously, he was training with Simba Bhora in Zimbabwe’s Northern Region Division One.

But he has since returned to South Africa, where he is awaiting a new lease of life in the football.

“A number of clubs are interested in from Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Dubai, but I’m patient. I have to wait a bit, but for sure, something is coming up.

“I didn’t want to rush because football can embarrass you. Remember, I have been out of football for some time, so I don’t need to rush things.”

Against all odds, Ndoro will hope to re-establish himself following the ordeal.

Previously ‘Fire’ as he was affectionately known, was a household name when he joined Orlando Pirates in July 2015.

At some point, he was rated as the wealthiest Zimbabwean footballer in South Africa before swapping to Saudi Arabia, where he played for Al Faisaly in 2017.

In South Africa, he also played for Ajax Cape Town and Highlands Park.