He stood out as one of the African imports into the Premier Soccer League (PSL)firmament who was a credit to South African soccer — both on and off the field.
Former Zimbabwean international central defender and Cape Town Spurs captain Makonese ”Francis” Shonhai has died at the age of 39 after battling meningitis and tuberculosis for some time.
Shonhai led Cape Town Spurs to both the league championship and the Bob Save Super Bowl title and was an example to South Africans how to approach defending in a tough, but composed and clinical manner.
His abject example on how to play ”the beautiful game” also saw Durban-based Amazulu in good stead, before Shonhai returned to Cape Town and retired following growing ill health.
He turned his attention to business management after leaving an indelible legacy on South African soccer and pursued a successful career.
”Shonhai was the backbone of the Zimbabwean national team,” said a colleague, ”and he was equally effective when he took Cape Town Spurs to their greatest heights as well.” — Sapa