Confederation of African Football (Giza)
18 December 2011
The Botswana senior team 26 man squad announced for training camp in South Africa as part of the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations finals had one surprise, the exclusion of Mochudi Centre Chiefs’ striker Kekaetswe ‘Mara’ Moloi who has been in fine form for his club.
Moloi scorer of 14 goals in 15 matches for his club side in the local League this season has been playing well and going by his form many expected him to make it into the squad for the training camp. He has combined well with strike partner Joel Mogorosi with the latter netting 22 times in 16 games. His omission from the team by head coach Stanley Tshosane has been the biggest surprise.
Coach Tshosane admitted that Moloi’s exclusion is debatable but pointed out that he had his reasons. “We’ve got different opinions when it comes to the squad’s selection. I’ve been listening to different radio stations saying lots of things and I’m not the kind of person who discusses selections in the media. I’ve always said that my door is open and I’m only going to work with those players who are willing to do the job for me,” said Tshosane.
He further pointed out that he has called Moloi for camp thrice in the past but he decided not to honour them without any valid reasons. Tshosane added that there are some players who acted in the same manner like Moloi but they have since written apology letters and they have been considered.
“There is no doubt that Mara is a good striker. I’ve always wanted to work with him but it seems he’s not willing. In the past, I’ve even asked my manager to talk to Chiefs’ officials about him. The first time I was told he was not well, the second and third camps, I’ve not received a word,” added Tshosane.
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Botswana: Tshosane Explains Moloi’s Exclusion