Blessed with pace and an eye for goal, a former Kaizer Chiefs striker has shed light on his decision to call time on his international career with Zimbabwe.
The Zimbabwean-born sensation had established himself as a fan favourite at Chiefs and was one of the club's star players for five years.
But after a difficult few years for Zimbabwe, Knowledge Musona has announced his retirement on the international stage, bringing down the curtains on a stellar 12-year as a Warrior. He joins Chiefs attacker Khama Billiat who also hung up his boots internationally early this year.
Upon announcing his retirement on Thursday, Musona posted a message on social media, explaining his reasons, including club football and granting the younger generation the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe.
"It is with a heavy heart that I officially announce my retirement from national duty with our beloved national football team, the Warriors. It's a decision that I did not take lightly after representing our beloved country for 12 years, starting with my first appearance on March 3, 2010, in a game against South Africa," said Musona.
"My time with the Warriors has been an incredible and rewarding journey that I am thankful to have the opportunity to undertake, one that I only dreamt of achieving early in my professional career. I cherish every moment that I spent as a member of the team."
Musona, who is on the books of Al-Tai in the Saudi Professional League, scored 28 goals in 49 appearances for Zimbabwe.
"I am retiring to concentrate on my career at the club and to afford my other teammates and rising stars the opportunity to represent our beloved country. Over the course of my football career with the Warriors, I have been truly blessed in both the low moments and many wonderful highlights," he added.
Affectionately known as the Smiling Assassin, he featured in three Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for Zimbabwe. And Musona retires when Zimbabwe is currently suspended from international football by FIFA due to government interference.
