Story by Anashe Murombedzi
ZIMBABWE’S top sporting talents are set for a high-stakes showdown at the Annual National Sports Awards (ANSA), scheduled for May in Harare.
Sprinting star Tapiwanashe Makarawu headlines the nominees for Sportsman of the Year as he seeks to defend the titles he claimed last year. His standout performance at the World Athletics Championships in Japan, where he won the 200m title, has kept him firmly in contention.
He faces strong competition from Sikandar Raza, who enjoyed an exceptional 2025 season. The all-rounder became the first Zimbabwean to reach 5,000 T20 International runs and played a key role in securing World Cup qualification for the Chevrons. His performances also earned him a place on the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year shortlist, while he currently tops the ICC ODI all-rounder rankings.
Martial arts exponent Wilfred Mashaya completes the shortlist, following a dominant showing at the International Martial Arts Corporation English Open Tournament, where he secured five gold medals.
In the Sportswoman of the Year category, tennis players Sasha Chimedza and Rutendo Tom will compete alongside strength athlete Chido Maenzanise.
The awards will also honour excellence across multiple categories, including junior athletes, coaches, officials, and teams. Notable nominees include the Hockey Under-21 Ladies, the Rugby Senior Men’s Sables, and the Cricket Chevrons Men’s T20 side.
The prestigious ceremony is set for 8 May in Harare, celebrating the achievements of Zimbabwe’s sporting elite.
