 Simmons (left) is currently in limbo and uncertain about his future |
Phil Simmons has begun his legal challenge against Zimbabwe Cricket's decision to terminate his three-year contract as coach of the national team. His appeal was heard in Harare High Court chambers on Monday. Justice Benjamin Hlatshwayo spent 25 minutes listening to arguments by both sides.
If Simmons loses the case, and his employment permit, he will have to leave the country within seven days.
But the hearing could take many months under various legal processes.
Simmons was appointed as Zimbabwe coach in September 2004, but was replaced by Kevin Curran six weeks ago as Zimbabwe played a Test match against India in Bulawayo.
The former West Indies player claimed he was never given a written termination letter, nor any offer of compensation.
Andrew Mukandiwa, acting for ZC, disputed this, saying a letter was presented to the former West Indies Test all-rounder.
His barrister Julie Wood told the judge that ZC managing director Osias Bvute
did not have any authority to terminate Simmons' contract because he was not a member of the ZC board of directors.
She said authority should have come from ZC chairman Peter
Chingoka.
Judge Hlatshwayo held the matter over until Friday morning, when he expects to hear further legal argument and witness statements.
MMIX
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