ZIMBABWE Warriors star striker Khama Billiat has called time on his international career just a month before the Africa Cup of Nations Finals scheduled for Cameroon.
The forward’s resignation effectively throws the Warriors’ Afcon preparations into disarray as he was instrumental in the team’s record third continental appearance on the trot and fifth overall.
“Fellow Zimbabweans, it was all a dream. When I was young, I always dreamt of representing the country, playing for the national team. The dream which seemed far-fetched for a young Khama in Mufakose came when I least expected it,” wrote Billiat in his shock resignation letter this evening.
“The first day I donned the Warriors badge, I vowed to enjoy myself and always lift the country’s spirits. Scoring a goal at the Africa Cup of Nations finals is one moment I still relive in my mind, even up to date. It is one of the many special moments I have experienced wearing the coveted yellow jersey.
“The feeling of scoring in a packed stadium for your nation is inexplicable.”
The nimble-footed Kaizer Chiefs star was the stand-in captain when Zimbabwe played their final World Cup Qualifier against Ethiopia at home on Sunday without injured skipper Knowledge Musona. The match ended one-all with Ethiopia cancelling Kuda Mahachi’s first-half strike three minutes from full time.
Khama scored two goals when Zimbabwe claimed an important away win against Zambia two years ago to open their Afcon Cup campaign on a positive note.
” I have met so many teammates, coaches at the national team, and I appreciate every relationship I have built along the way. By playing for the Warriors, I have improved immensely as a player; it is an opportunity I will forever cherish,” he said.
“However, every story, no matter how beautiful, has an ending. This is probably the heaviest decision I have ever had to take in my life, but it is a decision I make with a patriotic heart.”
He said he is stepping aside to pave the way for emerging talent.
“Like those who had to pave the way for our generation of Warriors stars to emerge, I have decided to retire from international football. I believe it is now time for me to pave the way for new talent to blossom and serve the country in the same way that I did, or even better,” Billiat added.
“I will forever be indebted to those who took a chance on me and moulded me into the international player I grew to become. Thank you, Zimbabwe, for supporting my teammates and me for showing love with each outing.”
