Former Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns player Khama Billiat has once again been left out of his national team setup.
On Wednesday, Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) announced 51-man provisional squad for Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which excluded Billiat.
Billiat excluded from the Warriors provisional squad
The forward, who only returned to international football last year, is nowhere to be seen as Zimbabwe prepares for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Billiat’s latest absence has raised more questions than answers.
Nehanda Radio reports that Billiat excused himself from the recent Warriors squad that was supposed to travel to Saudi Arabia and Qatar for friendly matches against Algeria and Qatar.
He has now reportedly pulled out of the group that is expected to head to Morocco as well.
No proper explanation has been given so far, and that silence has fuelled more speculation.
What we do know is that Billiat’s name is missing from the list released by ZIFA.
It’s a significant omission, especially considering how much experience he brings to the national side.
Billiat’s short-lived comeback
Billiat’s situation feels a bit odd when you look back.
He came out of retirement in August last year after former Warriors coach Michael Nees personally reached out to him.
Before that, he had retired from international football in November 2021, saying he wanted to focus on club commitments.
His return was treated like a big boost for Zimbabwe. But now, barely a year later, his status with the national team is unclear again.
What this means for the team
With AFCON around the corner, the Warriors technical team will have to make do without one of the country’s most experienced attackers.
Younger players will likely shoulder more responsibility, and fans will once again debate whether Billiat is done with the national team or if this is just another temporary break.