Khama Billiat: Breaking Down Zimbabwe Premier League Salaries After Forward’s Yadah FC Move

• Khama Billiat will now play for Yadah FC in the Zimbabwe Premier League
• Several clubs from the Castle Lager-backed league wanted the 33-year-old
• The league has an estimated annual budget of around 22.7 million rands

The recent transfer of Khama Billiat to Yadah FC has shone a light on the somewhat mysterious world of player wages within the Zimbabwe Premier League.

Though exact numbers are typically kept under wraps, Billiat's recent move is believed to be one of the most lucrative in the league's history.

Backed by Castle Lager Beer, the league runs from March to November with an estimated annual budget of around US$1.2 million (R22.7 million).

Initially, it seemed Billiat might join traditional powerhouse Dynamos FC, following hints of his interest in returning to his home country.

How much does a cricket player make? Pro-player salary, average wage, coaches' salary

Cricket

However, things changed on Tuesday, February 20, when Yadah officials greeted him at the airport, igniting speculation about a potential signing. Negotiations with Dynamos hit a snag over payment terms, as the forward reportedly insisted on receiving the sign-on fee upfront, while Dynamos proposed splitting it into two instalments.

The 33-year-old decided to explore his options further, as reported by The Herald.

Amidst this, Manica Diamonds entered the picture, offering an immediate US$20,000 (R380,000) sign-on fee, a monthly salary of US$3,500 (R67,000) and a winning bonus of US$500 (R9,500)

However, Billiat ultimately opted for the Yadah deal, which includes a US$5,000 (R95,000) salary and a US$1,000 (R19,000) winning bonus, making him the league's highest-paid player.

With assistance from agents and players, Far Post delved into the salary structures across the league.

Historically, FC Platinum, home to former Chippa United coach Norman Mapeza, held the reputation for being the highest-paying club. Between 2020 and 2022, they reportedly paid Silas Songani approximately US$4,000 (R77,000), making him the top earner.

Manchester City players' salaries: Who is the highest paid Man City player right now?

Football

The second-tier professional players in Zimbabwe earn around US$2,500 (R48,000), while the third tier gets around US$1,500 (R29,000).

At the entry-level, Zimbabwean footballers expect to earn approximately US$400 (R7700) monthly.

Competition for Billiat's Signature

Sports Brief reported that several teams in Zimbabwe were pushing to sign Biliat.

This was before he settled for Yadah FC, who looked more serious about wanting his services.

Billiat's career has been marked by success, particularly during his time in the DStv Premiership.