MANZINI – Eddie ‘Bharuka’ Mondlane delivered a commanding Sunday performance at Cardio Square in Ngwane Park to capture the REPS E138 000 title.
He outclassed Nkosinathi ‘Bhubesi’ Shlongonyane 7–5 in a gripping final that secured him a well-earned E30 000 prize in the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) tournament. The decider unfolded with the intensity of a championship bout; Bhubesi pressing forward with aggression while Bharuka answered with poise, precision and flawless table management. When the last ball fell, the result felt like the natural conclusion of a masterfully constructed campaign.
Bharuka’s journey to the crown was forged through pressure. His 5–4 victory over Zweli Siziba in the semi-finals demanded full concentration, while Bhubesi powered into the final after dismantling Manyathela 7–1.
Earlier in the last eight, the competition produced its fiercest exchanges, with Siziba defeating Jeremiah 7–3; Bharuka edging Bhubesi 6–5 in a classic encounter; Manyathela brushing aside Nyawupe 7–2; and Bhubesi maintaining form with a 7–2 win over Siziba.
The ladies’ division delivered its own captivating storyline, led by Mbali Dlamini’s composed charge to the title.
Ncobile Dlamini demonstrated impressive consistency across her two entries, while Botswana Kizza provided strong international representation as the category continued to grow in quality and profile.
The teams section added tactical depth through its two-lives format, forcing squads to prove both stamina and strategic balance.
Siwela embraced the structure with total authority, finishing first and second without the need for a final, while Amabhasi secured the remaining podium spots in a demonstration of South African strength across the field.
Tournament Organiser Dodge Matsebula later extended sincere gratitude to players, sponsors, partners and fans, acknowledging the collective effort that transformed the event into a spirited celebration of the sport.
Support from REPS, Sphana Investments, Manzini Lounge, Cue Pixels, Dodge SM Media and enthusiastic supporters ensured the tournament carried a festive atmosphere from start to finish.
For Bharuka, the victory crowned a day of belief, steel and remarkable clarity under pressure.
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