Adequate preparation key to Sables’ World Cup qualification

FORMER Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) vice-president Martin Shone says that adequate preparations will be key for the country to qualify for the World Cup after they were drawn into a tough group at this year’s Africa Cup, set for Uganda in July.

The Africa Cup is being used as a qualifier for the 2027 World Cup in Australia, with the winners securing an automatic ticket, while the runners-up will have to participate in a play-off qualifier, better known as Repechage.

Zimbabwe will face Morocco, while Kenya and Uganda make up the second quarter-final of Pool A.

The winners of the two matches will then meet in the first semi-final.

In the other pool, powerhouse Namibia will begin their Africa Cup campaign with a date against Senegal, while Algeria and Côte d’Ivoire will square off in the other last-eight match.
Shone considers the group to be a challenging one.

“It’s going to be tough. These are games determined by small margins, and it’s good that the coaches have some time to work out their combinations and every other aspect of the game. There is no room for error at this stage, and adequate preparations are key. We can’t afford to be complacent or underestimate any team, no matter the rankings. Every match will be a battle, and that’s where our preparation and focus will make all the difference.”

“I have all the faith in the Zimbabwe team, and I believe they have what it takes to make it. The stakes are incredibly high, but we have got the talent. I am certain that with the right preparation and mentality, we will stand tall at the end of this competition,” said Shone.

“However, it’s not just about skill; it’s about mentality as well we have to have the right mentality. The pressure can be intense, but I know this team can handle it. I think the crop of players is hungry for success. I am confident that they can rise to the occasion.”

Zimbabwe are the top seeds at this year’s tournament by winning last year’s Africa Cup. Morocco, on their part, are fresh from battling their way into the continent’s top eight via a 26-12 victory over fellow North Africans Tunisia in a Repechage final on Sunday at Pere Jego Stadium in Casablanca.