SOUTH Africa-based Zimbabwe Under-20 rugby star Shingirai Manyarara is set to become the latest local rugby sensation to secure a dance with a top European rugby side following reports that he has signed a three-year contract with French Top 14 side Racing 92.
Manyarara, who only turned 19 in February, is part of the Zimbabwe Under-20 rugby team, which is set to participate in the World Rugby Under-20 Trophy that will be played in Kenya from July 15-30.
The highly rated Zimbabwean teenager has over the last couple of seasons established himself as one of the brightest prospects on the South African schoolboy rugby scene with a string of impressive displays for the Eastern Cape-based Kingswood College.
While Manyarara’s move to Paris has not yet been officially confirmed by Racing 92, his representatives, Izzat Sports Management announced that he has signed with the six-time Top 14 champions.
“We are delighted to announce that Shingirai "Shingi" Manyarara is set to embark on an incredible journey with Racing 92. Shingi, a talented Zimbabwean athlete, has signed a three-year deal with the prestigious French club,” said Izzat Sports Management, which has offices in UK, Ireland, France, USA, Japan, Argentina, South America, Argentina, Australia and New Zealand.
“At just 19 years old, Shingi has already made a significant impact with his exceptional size, power, and speed. Joining Racing 92 presents an incredible opportunity for Shingi to play alongside and learn from legendary back rowers like Yannick Nyanga and Siya Kolisi. Congratulations, Shingi!”
Manyarara becomes the second Zimbabwean prodigy to directly move from the South Africa schools rugby circuit to the top tier of French rugby union, following in the footsteps of TJ Maguranyanga, who is on the books of ASM Clermont Auvergne in the French Top 14.
The gifted loose forward has enjoyed a remarkable rise in his young career since coming through the ranks at Hillcrest Preparatory School in Mutare.
He showed enough potential very early in his young career to be selected to represent Zimbabwe at the Under-14 Craven Week in South Africa in 2006.
Manyarara earned a move to Kingswood College in 2021 but unfortunately, was unable to display his talents in a curtailed season due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Kingswood College recently recognised Manyarara with Honours for Rugby in recognition of his dedication to the sport and success since he moved to the school two years ago.
“Shingi worked incredibly hard in the preseason without any guarantee of rugby taking place this year demonstrating his commitment to the sport,” Kingswood said in a statement on their website.
“Shingi possesses the rare athletic attributes of size, power, and speed with his explosive performances this season causing havoc to opposition teams. His positive attitude and willingness to receive feedback, enabled him to improve in every game of the season with his continued progress earning him a reputation of being one of the best loose forwards in the country.
“Shingi’s line breaking capabilities validated his selection to the Eastern Province Craven Week Team however his humility has ensured that he is currently negotiating a three-year professional contract with a Top 14 French rugby club. We are delighted to award Shingi Honours for Rugby,” Kingswood College said,
