Hunt: Bidvest Wits Missed Opportunity to Challenge Sundowns’ Dominance

Durban City coach Gavin Hunt asserts that if his previous team, Bidvest Wits, were still active, they would have contested Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance over the league title.

Hunt was the last manager to lead Wits to a championship during the 2016/17 season, after which Sundowns took control of the title race.

“If Bidvest Wits were still around today, we would have captured the league,” Hunt confidently stated. “I have no doubt we would have secured it once more.”

Wits was sold at the conclusion of the 2019/20 season, transforming into Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila. “We were their main rivals in those days,” Hunt reminded.

Currently, Hunt’s newly promoted Durban City has had a strong start to the season, winning their first two matches while keeping clean sheets. Their latest triumph was a gritty 1-0 win against Chippa United at Chatsworth Stadium on Wednesday, courtesy of a late goal from Joslin Kamatuka.

Hunt Envisions a Tighter Title Race This Season

When inquired about the chances of another team dethroning Sundowns after their eight-year reign, Hunt indicated that this season offers a significant chance. He highlighted Sundowns’ busy schedule, which includes the FIFA Club World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations.

“I expect the gap to be closer, instead of the 15 or 16 points we’ve recently observed, because of their taxing schedule in the last year and a half,” Hunt explained.

“They still possess the quality to win the title. They are anticipated to be victorious, but the competition will be considerably tougher.”

He also mentioned that Sundowns’ players may be occupied with international commitments, potentially benefiting other clubs. “The teams at the top should be welcoming this challenge, not us [Durban City],” he joked.

“However, trying to achieve this again will be quite a challenge. If they manage it, which is definitely possible, it would be an outstanding accomplishment.”

Hunt reflected on his past experiences, noting that prolonged successful seasons can lead to internal contract disputes, similar to what Sundowns is dealing with concerning players like Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Khuliso Mudau, and Peter Shalulile.

“That’s the reality of the sport,” Hunt remarked. “I always say, winning is amazing. But sometimes, it requires changes… This league will undoubtedly be much more competitive this year due to Sundowns’ current commitments.”