30th November 2024 shall remain a memorable day to players, staff members, supporters and anyone else associated with capital city soccer giants Silver Strikers Football Club.
On this day the Central Bankers were crowned champions of Malawi’s top flight league, the tnm Super League after an impressive run of form which saw them taste just one defeat in 30 matches.
It was a record breaking season for a team that had gone 11 years without tasting the league’s glory.
However their road to glory was not all that rosy as some key members of the playing squad could withdraw along the way not by choice but as circumstances could demand so.
One such player who failed to reach the finishing line was left back Tatenda M’balaka.
A knee injury he suffered in 2023 whilst playing against MAFCO kept haunting the talented left footer as such his body could no longer carry along towards the end of the first round marking an end to what looked like a promising season in which he cemented his position in the senior Malawi national team as the first choice left back.
Attempts were made to have the player treated locally but all that proved futile as on doctors’ recommendations it was advised that the player be flown abroad to undergo surgery on his knee as it was established that the he had torn his meniscus and so on 24th January this year Tatenda underwent a successful knee surgery at AIC Kijabe hospital in Kenya.
From January, the player has been recovering back home and earlier this week we caught up with Joker as he is popularly known among his peers to appreciate how the recovery process has been so far and many more.
How is the recovery process going on?
I’m pleased to report that my recovery is going on well. The surgery and rehabilitation process are on track, and I’m optimistic about my progress.
How has the injury affected your growth as a player as it came at a time you were at the peak of your career cementing your position as Flames’ first choice left back?
The injury had a significant impact on me physically, mentally, and emotionally. However, I’ve learnt a valuable lesson: that life and football are unpredictable. I’ve come to understand the importance of giving my all on the field because the future is uncertain. Despite being at the peak of my career and part of the national team, the injury remains a painful experience. Yet, I’ve accepted it and am looking forward to a stronger comeback, believing that tough times are temporary.
Do you see yourself regaining your rich vein of form after full recovery?
I believe in confidence and resilience, knowing that I will never look down on myself. I’m determined to come back even stronger than before. Drawing inspiration from my faith, I believe that what was lost will be returned tenfold. This gives me the conviction that I will regain my form.
How supportive has been your team and teammates in this low moment of your career?
I’ve received massive support from my team and teammates, which has been crucial during this challenging time. This support system is vital for my recovery and morale.
Any chances of returning to the field of play this season?
I’m optimistic about returning to the field before the season ends. My determination and confidence suggest that I’m working hard towards this goal.
Do you see your team defending the championship it won last season?
Definitely the team and I are determined to defend our championship title till the last day.
We wish Joker all the best in his recovery journey
