Malawi’s Fifa grade ref misses Zambia assignment after failing fitness test
Assistant referee Jones Chimeza has lost an opportunity to travel to Zambia to officiate the Chipolopolo Boys’ game against Zimbabwe in the Africa Nations Championship (Chan) on Saturda yafter failing Fifa Physical Fitness Test two weeks ago.
Chimeza was initially assigned together with referee Antony Rafael, Kelvin Ngolande as assistant referee and Duncan Lengani as fourth official for the match.
The referee, who failed alongside Grade One referee Jossam Nkhoma of Lilongwe, has been replaced by up-and-coming Feston Kusekuse.
Kusekuse, will be handling his first ever international game abroad joining seasoned Kelvin Ngolanga, as first assistant referee with refree Antony Rafael and Duncan Lengani returning to Zambia after Cosafa Castle Cup as fourth official.
“I am happy because I have been considered for the first time to handle such a game,” Kusekuse said.
Fam Geneneral Secretary Suzgo Nyirenda confirmed the development.
“The changes were not made by us. We just got a communication from Caf.”
But he said Chimeza had second chance to retain his status as Fifa grade assistant referee should he succeed after a retake.
Physical Fitness instructor Moffat Champiti said the two assistant referees including Chimeza would not be eligible to officiate Super League and national cup competition until he passes.
