ZIMBABWE are looking to replicate their 2012 heroics to be crowned Rugby Africa Cup champions when they meet Algeria in today's final set for Kampala, Uganda.
The Sables beat Uganda 22-18 to register their first elite level Africa triumph in Tunisia in 2012.
In Wednesday's Rugby Africa semifinal, Zimbabwe outclassed six-time holders Namibia 32-10 to march into today's final.
Algeria finished third in the last Rugby Africa Cup in 2022 booked a date against the Sables in the final after edging Kenya 20-12 in Wednesday's semifinal.
Halfaback Ian Prior, prop Cleopas Kundiona and flank Tino Mavesere have reportedly flown back to their respective bases.
The trio left camp soon after Zimbabwe’s historic win against Namibia and their absence is expected to provide a stern test to the depth in the Zimbabwe squad against a tricky Algerian side, which upstaged Kenya to reach the final.
News about the departure of the Sables trio just before the crucial final has not dampened the mood in the camp.
Everyone is focussed on bringing the crown home.
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"Everyone wants to play in the final and we are truly blessed to be in it," said Sables captain Hilton Mudariki.
Sables head coach Piet Benade predicted a tough match against Algeria.
"This is a significant step towards our ultimate goal of qualifying for the Rugby World Cup," Benade said.
"This Algeria will be a different test, and we must approach the final with the same focus and intensity."
Man of the moment, Tapiwa Mafura, who has been in sensational form at fullback, starts at flyhalf in place of the Prior.
Mafura’s move to flyhalf sees Takudzwa Musingwini being switched from left wing to fullback while Trevor Gurwe takes the latter’s pace at the wing.
Meanwhile, lock forward Godfrey Muzanargwo, who also plays in the backrow will replace his friend Mavesere, who has returned to the Sharks
In the front row tighthead prop Bornwell Gwinji has replaced the colossal Kundiona, who has returned to France due to club commitments while lock forward Godfrey Muzanargwo, who also plays in the back row, has been added to the squad.
The 5 - 3 split sees wing Darrell Makwasha come on to the bench while veteran tighthead prop, Brian Makamure, the only player still active from the 2012 title winning Sables team, comes onto the replacements for Gwinji.
Zimbabwe Squad to face Algeria
Starting line-up (1-15): Victor Mupunga, Simba Mandioma, Bornwell Gwinji, Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa, Simba Siraha, Godfrey Muzanargwo, Dylan Utete, Aiden Burnett, Aiden Burnett, Hilton Mudariki (captain), Tapiwa Mafura, Trevor Gurwe, Kudzai Mashawi, Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, Edward Sigauke, Takudzwa Musingwini
Replacements: (16-23): Liam Larkan, Zvikomborero Chimoto, Brian Makamure, David Makamba, Tadiwa Gwashu, Darrell Makwasha, Keegan Joubert, Dion Khumalo
