ZANACO

The side, known for their defensive prowess, have signed star players like Rusike, Chavda, Pitroipa and former Nkana striker Guily Manziba. They have also brought back Jack Chileshe from his international spell and he seems set to usurp fan favourite Isaac Chansa in the middle of the pack of course Rusike looks to have gotten that area so well already. The attacking additions particularly that of Rusike might denote a change in tactics from Numba Mumamba, especially against weaker oppositions.

The squad looks good enough to win the title, and expectations will be high. Numba is also under a lot of pressure after an uncharacteristic failure to defend the title last season but the Barclays Cup was a face-saver. If he can get the best out of Martin Phiri, Chavda Maisha, there might well be red ribbons around the trophy in December. If not, they may just come to rue their decision to let go of Augustine Mulenga, otherwise this Zanaco team is looking very good and without a doubt, favourite for the title.