The 2024 TNM Super League champions Silver Strikers are staring at a potential defensive crisis following the imminent departure of two key defenders, Maxwell Paipi and Nixon Mwase, who are both set to leave the Central Bankers on free transfers.
The development comes just days after Silver Strikers announced contract extensions for midfielder Innocent Shema, whose deal now runs until December 2027, and Chinsisi Maonga, who committed his future to the club until 2028. However, the celebrations were dampened by the confirmation that long-serving attacker Duncan Nyoni had departed after eight years of service following the expiry of his contract.
Paipi Zimbabwe-Bound
The more concrete of the two exits appears to be that of vice-captain Maxwell Paipi, who is reportedly on the verge of joining Zimbabwean side Platinum FC. Sources close to the situation at Silver Strikers, speaking on condition of anonymity as they are not authorized to address the media on behalf of the club, revealed that the defender has already said his goodbyes to teammates.
“Paipi has bid farewell to the squad. Everything points to him leaving for Zimbabwe next week,” the source disclosed.
The deal is believed to be facilitated by TKT Sports Agency, which has established a track record of brokering transfers for Malawian players to Zimbabwean clubs. When contacted for comment, representatives from the agency were unavailable, though all indications suggest the transfer is in its final stages.
Paipi’s departure represents a significant loss for Silver Strikers. The defender has been instrumental in the club’s recent success, forming a formidable partnership with Mwase at the heart of the defense. Together, the duo helped Silver Strikers secure back-to-back silverware—the TNM Super League title in 2024 and the FDH Bank Cup in 2025.
Mwase’s Future Uncertain
While Paipi’s destination appears clear, Nixon Mwase’s next move remains shrouded in uncertainty. What is certain, however, is that the former Civil Service United and Mighty Tigers defender has rejected Silver Strikers’ attempts to tie him down to a new contract.
Mwase had previously been a target for city rivals FCB Nyasa Big Bullets during Peter Mponda’s tenure as head coach. With Bullets currently looking to bolster their defensive options, speculation has resurfaced linking the experienced center-back with a move across town.
“There were initial talks about Mwase also moving to Zimbabwe, but that doesn’t seem to be materializing. Bullets are very interested in bringing him in,” the source added.
For Big Bullets, securing Mwase’s signature would represent a major coup—not only would they be strengthening their own squad, but they would also be weakening their fiercest rivals in the process.
The potential loss of both Paipi and Mwase presents a serious challenge for Silver Strikers as they prepare to defend their league title. The pair have been the bedrock of the team’s defense over the past two seasons, providing stability and leadership at the back.
Their exits would leave a gaping hole in Silver’s defensive structure, and finding adequate replacements will be no easy task for the technical bench. The Central Bankers will need to move swiftly in the transfer market if they are to maintain their competitive edge in what promises to be another challenging campaign.
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