Zvishavane — SHABANIE MINE have been hit by a spate of injuries in their battle to keep alive their good run in the Castle Lager Premiership championship race.

About half-a-dozen players are down.

"I have six players who are nursing injuries," said Shabanie coach, Luke Masomere. "I have Tarisai (Rukanda), Raymond (Sibanda), Pervington (Zimunya), Erea (Phiri), Malvern (Fenyeka), Gilford Mchiwa, and Victor (Twaliki)."

Rukanda had to be stretchered out of the pitch following a knock on his ankle and hasn't been training this week.

Goalkeeper Twaliki was taken to hospital with a swollen leg, but played in the game against Monomotapa, which Shabanie won 2-1 at home.

The Chinda Boys' next game is a home tie against Chicken Inn this weekend. Masomere said his team has been consistent.

"My home record is the same as the away record because I have only lost one match away to Buffaloes (away) and I have also lost once to Highlanders at home," said Masomere.

"The game against Chicken Inn will be one of the best games although the injuries will disturb the rhythm of my team it won't affect the outcome of the game."

Masomere feels Chicken Inn are one of the strongest team in the Premiership and also have a good coach in Adam Ndlovu.

"Chicken Inn are stronger than us," said Masomere.