THE Sables 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 tough path and missing a few key players, the Zimbabwe national men’s 15s team remains confident of success.
They left the country for Kampala yesterday ahead of tomorrow’s kick-off.
This year’s edition serves as the initial 2027 World Cup Africa region qualifiers and if the Sables lose tomorrow, they are out of the running for a berth at the global showpiece.
The tournament is being hosted at Mandela National Stadium in Namboole and Muteesa II Stadium Wankulukuku in Uganda from tomorrow up to July 29.
Zimbabwe will have their work cut out in the tournament opener, with a quarter-final clash against hosts Uganda tomorrow afternoon.
A win against Uganda will set a semifinal date against either Namibia or Burkina Faso on Wednesday, while a defeat will see the Sables play in the losers’ placement semis.
Eight nations are vying for places among the top four nations that will play the final phase of the 2027 Rugby World Cup next year.
- Let’s assemble Warriors team soonest
- Marange in line for December women's award
- Sables begin WC bid
- Sables on the cusp of glory
Keep Reading
The other nations include Ivory Coast, Kenya, Senegal and Algeria.
Zimbabwe have a tough route to the final as they have defending champions Namibia in their path.
Over the years, Namibia have claimed the only other African ticket to the World Cup after reigning champions South Africa, who do not have to go through the qualifiers.
Sables head coach Piet Benade is confident that his charges will match the Cranes pound for pound and give themselves a headstart.
“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.”
Zimbabwe are expected to do their captain’s run at Namboole this afternoon, with hosts Uganda coming an hour after the Sables.
Sables skipper Hilton Mudariki said his charges were 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,” he said.
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, defence coach Senna Esterhuizen, forwards and scrum coach Joel Carew, athlete welfare manager coach Tich Makwanya, lineout coach Fortune Chipendu, assistant forwards coach Kevin Nqindi, team manager Takunda “TJ” Chifokoyo, physio Amanda Zisengwe
