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JOHANNESBURG. — Former Mamelodi Sundowns forward, Alois Bunjira, has revealed Khama Billiat’s decision to retire caught many people by surprise in Zimbabwe.

Bunjira believes there is more to the decision than what has come out, so far, in the public domain.

The 31-year-old Kaizer Chiefs forward announced his retirement from international football this week.

“Yes, I can say it caught Zimbabweans by surprise as most Zimbabweans were already focusing on the AFCON next year,” Bunjira told KickOff.com.

“But, in retrospect, considering what has been happening in the Zimbabwe camp, the coaching personnel changes, bonus issues, camping issues, management of players and the unfair criticism targeted at the senior players, I would personally say I could understand Khama’s decision.

“To me, it’s definitely about him being tired about being frustrated and unhappy.”

Bunjira said Billiat’s decision will not benefit anybody though.

“It’s definitely not a good thing for his career and Zimbabwe. He is only 31, smaller built.

“He still has four years of international football in him.

“His brand, towards the end of his career, needs both the national team and his club football.

“He is not in Europe where there is the pressure of too many games with the national team interfering.

“After all, Zimbabwe hardly interferes with his club career as they don’t play too many internationals.

“Zimbabwe hardly plays friendly games either. “I hope whatever drove him to announce retirement, is solved as soon as possible.

“Zimbabwe and Khama need each other badly at this moment in time.” — KickOff.com