The Sables, Zimbabwe’s national men’s 15s rugby team, face a daunting task as they kick off their Rugby Africa Cup campaign, as well as, the bid for a place at the next World Cup with a clash against Uganda.
Despite a challenging path and the absence of a few key players, the Sables remain confident in their prospects for success. The team departed for Kampala yesterday, ahead of tomorrow's crucial match.
This year’s edition of the Rugby Africa Cup serves as the initial qualifiers for the 2027 World Cup in the Africa region. If the Sables lose tomorrow, their hopes of securing a berth at the global showpiece will be dashed.
The tournament is being hosted at Mandela National Stadium in Namboole and Muteesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku, running from tomorrow until July 29.
Zimbabwe faces a tough tournament opener with a quarter-final clash against hosts Uganda tomorrow afternoon. A win against Uganda will set up a semi-final date against either Namibia or Burkina Faso on Wednesday. However, a defeat will see the Sables competing in the placement semi-finals for the lower positions.
Eight nations are vying for a place among the top four teams that will advance to the final phase of the 2027 Rugby World Cup qualifiers next year. Alongside Zimbabwe, the other competing nations include Ivory Coast, Kenya, Senegal, and Algeria.
The Sables have a challenging route to the final, with defending champions Namibia standing in their way. Historically, Namibia has claimed the sole African ticket to the World Cup after South Africa, who do not have to go through the qualifiers.
Sables head coach Piet Benade is confident his team will match the Ugandan Cranes pound for pound and give themselves a strong start.
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“We have a fantastic group of players ready to represent Zimbabwe with pride. The hard work is done, and now it's time to translate that effort into success on the field,” said Benade during the team's send-off dinner hosted by the principal sponsors Nedbank in Harare on Wednesday evening.
“This dream wouldn't be possible without the dedication of so many unsung heroes from sponsors to supporters, everyone has contributed to our preparation. We are incredibly grateful for the faith and investment poured into this team.”
The Sables are expected to conduct their captain's run at Namboole this afternoon, with hosts Uganda scheduled to follow an hour later.
Sables skipper, Hilton Mudariki said his charges are relishing the challenges ahead.
“We know that it's going to be a tough one, we've had a couple more days to work at it but overall we just can't wait for the show together," said Mudariki.
Sables Squad
Forwards: Victor Mupunga, Simba Mandioma, Cleopas Kundiona, David Makamba, Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa, Blithe Mavesere, Simba Siraha, Aiden Burnett (VC), Zvikomborero Chimoto, Bryan Chiang, Bornwell Gwinji, Hilton Kamanda, Tadiwa Gwashu, Dylan Utete, Brian Nyaude, Tawanda Banda, Brian Makamure.
Backs: Hilton Mudariki (C), Ian Prior, Edward Sigauke, Kudzi Mashawi (CC), Dion Khumalo, Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, Tapiwa Mafura, Keegan Joubert, Darell Makwasha, Trevor Gurwe, Takudzwa Musingwini.
Technical Team
Head coach Piet Benade, Assistant Coach Ricky Chirengende, Consultant Gert Smal, Defense Coach Senna Esterhuizen, Forwards and Scrum Coach Joel Carew, Athlete Welfare Manager Coach Tich Makwanya, Lineout Coach Fortune Chipendu, Assistant Forwards Cach Kevin Nqindi, Team Manager TJ Chifokoyo, Physio Amanda Zisengwe.
