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Ricky Zililo, Senior Sports Reporter
THE ability to start at the bottom following several failed moves to Premiership clubs has helped Zimbabwean striker Ishmael Wadi regain his form and attract interest from top South African clubs.

Since joining Pretoria-based First Division club JDR Stars from Caps United after impressing during trials in July, Wadi has rekindled the old form that made him a prime target for most local clubs.

He has so far banged in five goals in six GladAfrica Championship starts this season, with five of them coming last month.

It is this goal scoring form that has seen the Zimbabwean forward drawing interest from South African Premiership teams.

Wadi opened his JDR Stars goal account when they beat Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila (TTM) 2-0, and was on target in the 2-1 derby win against Pretoria Callies.

He then grabbed a brace in the 3-2 win over Polokwane City.

After seven matches, JDR Stars are fourth on the league table, trailing leaders Hungry Lions by a point.

According to South African football magazine, KickOff, Johannesburg-based clubs are following the progress of the 28-year-old front man.

Reports indicate that should Wadi continue with his goal scoring prowess, he might make a move to the DStv PSL in January.

“I’ve seen reports that there are clubs following my progress, but I’m not reading much into what is being written in the media as my focus is on delivering for JDR Stars and help the team win a Premiership ticket. I have to keep my feet on the ground, concentrate on playing for my team and should that interest come, we’ll take it from there,” said Wadi.

The former Bulawayo Chiefs, Bulawayo City, FC Platinum, Harare City and Caps United winger is hoping to continue with his fine form.

“I think this is my time to shine and show what I’m capable of doing, having twice missed opportunities to sign for Maritzburg and Stellenbosch. I think those two failed moves have in a way motivated me to work hard, hence the decision to join a First Division club like JDR Stars so that I get the opportunity to showcase my talent.

“I’m grateful to JDR Stars for believing in me and my prayer is that I continue with this form, help the team and even catch the attention of national team coaches because I want to be included in the national team,” he said.

The speedy winger is among three Zimbabweans at JDR Stars. One of them is Aces Youth Soccer Academy product Tapiwa Mandinyenya, who joined the club at the beginning of the season, and midfielder Temptation Chiwunga, who has been with the Pretoria outfit for a while. Mandinyenya has one goal to his account. – @ZililoR