The Sunday Mail sports writer Roy Matiki has died. He was 35. Matiki, known as "Matrix" in the journalism fraternity, succumbed to a brain tumour at his home in Budiriro. Matiki's health began deteriorating on August 26 as he was covering the derby between Dynamos and CAPS United. He collapsed at the National Sports Stadium and was ferried to hospital in an ambulance.

He recovered for about two weeks before he was readmitted into hospital.

Matiki was operated on and was undergoing chemotherapy for the tumour.

Family spokesperson Mr Gilbert Matoyi confirmed Roy's death, and said the family was saddened by his death.

"He was a determined and hard working man. He died yesterday morning at home and had not fully recuperated from the brain tumour and was still on chemotherapy.

"Burial arrangements are still underway and he will be buried on Tuesday," Mr Matoyi said.

Matiki had a brief stint at the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation as an intern before joining the Daily Mirror.

Afterwards, Matiki joined The Sunday Mail before working at H-Metro.

He returned to The Sunday Mail where he worked until the time of his death.

Matiki is survived by his wife and one child.

Mourners are gathered at number 9532 Budiriro 4.