Zim announce central contracts 06 Sep 2007 By: Daniel Rosam

New central contracts have been handed out to the top 20 elite Zimbabwe cricketers. Previously the Zimbabwe board had only offered 10 central contracts to those who hadn't shown an interest to rebel against the board.

However this time around the Zimbabwe board has felt it necessary to tie up 20 players into their contracts. The contracts have been given with grades. The grades determine the salary expected, bonuses and other perks that come with eing a Zimbabwean cricketer.

As with before, players aren't happy with what has been offered. Again its suspected that the unhappy players are those who have had previous altercations with the board.

The contracted players are paid a retainer, then match fees and bonuses on top, although it is not known how much these values are.

Contracted players and classifications:

A+

Prosper Utseya (captain)

A

Tatenda Taibu
Gary Brent
Vusimuzi Sibanda

B

Edward Rainsford
Hamilton Masakadza
Terry Duffin
Stuart Matsikenyeri
Sean Williams
Tawanda Mupawira
Elton Chigumbura
Chris Mpofu

C

Brendan Taylor
Justice Chibhabha
Keith Dabengwa
Tinotenda Mawoyo
Graeme Cremer
Timycen Maruma

It is well known that Brendan Taylor does not rely on a cricket income, so this may be why he is in the C category.

Elton Chigumbura is said to be very unhappy with his placement in the B category, however it has been stated that his status will be looked at. Only four months ago he represented Zimbabwe in the Afro-Asia series in India, playing as the African All rounder.

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