Tendai Ndoro (Chris Ricco/BackpagePix)
The Zimbabwean international has brought an urgent court interdict against arbitrator Nassir Cassim’s decision.
In his application, Ndoro spoke of the financial implications that come with stopping him from playing as well as the damage to his reputation.
“The inability to play this match cannot be undone after the fact. I am an integral part of the Ajax squad and preventing me from playing could cause irrevocable consequences for Ajax. Should Ajax lose or draw the game, then that result cannot be undone in the future. What is more, Ajax faces relegation and needs every point it can get in its remaining games this season. My right to work is under threat,” he said in his application.
“What is in question is my ability to play for Ajax for the remainder of this season. This question arises [from] a series of unfortunate circumstances in Saudi Arabia. But the key issue in this case is whether I should continue suffering irreparable harm arising from an unlawful and unconstitutional decision to suspend me from playing football. I have been properly registered by the NSL [National Soccer League], have a valid contract and I am otherwise eligible to play. My right to work and my dignity is at stake.
“My monthly salary was not paid for four months. On or about December 16 2017, I inquired about the balance of my outstanding salary. I had an awful encounter with the president of the club [Al-Faisaly]. He threatened me and told me to forget about the balance owing as Al-Faisaly would terminate the employment contract if I kept asking questions about my salary.
“These are the circumstances under which I left Al-Faisaly and joined Ajax. My career and ability to earn a living was under threat. I was forced to leave Al-Faisaly to ensure that I continued to play football and earn a living while I am still able to play the game at a professional level.”
“In terms of my registration as a player, which binds me to the NSL Handbook [rules], I had a right to have my dispute settled quickly, fairly and effectively by the Dispute Resolution Chamber.”
“Finally, the inability to play has brought harm to my reputation and ability to potentially find employment at another club. I am being treated as a if I have done something wrong and acted in bad faith.”
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