Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Tichawangana-Deputy Sports Editor
PIETER BENADE says the Sables players who secured Zimbabwe’s qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup will remain the backbone of the squad despite the arrival of several overseas-based additions.
Benade last week named his travelling squad for the North American leg of the World Rugby Nations Cup, with the South African-born trio of Gary Porter, Tijde Visser and Michael Kumbirai among the latest additions.
Benade largely maintained the core of the team, with some seasoned campaigners making the trip to the United States, among them the likes of skipper Hilton Mudariki, Kudzai Mashawi, Victor Mupunga, Edward Sigauke, Bornwell Gwinji, Aiden Burnett, Michael Kumbirai, Tadiwanashe Gwashu, Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa, Blithe Mavesere and Tapiwa Mafura.
The likes of Cleopas Kundiona, Farai Mudariki, Matthew McNab and Ian Prior missed the buildup to the Nations Cup due to club commitments, but the trio have since been released and made the trip.
There were also a couple of surprise inclusions, with Benade showing his faith in the young prospects like Tatenda Kamubvumbi and Bryan Chiang.
Zimbabwe begin their campaign against fellow 2027 World Cup opponents Tonga in Denver on July 4 before facing the hosts, the US, in Charlotte.
They complete the opening leg against Canada in Winnipeg.
While Porter, Visser and Kumbirai are among the latest additions to the squad, Benade insists continuity remains central to his plans.
“What you are going to see is a lot of the same names in the squad as we continue preparing for Australia,” Benade told Zimpapers Sports Hub.
“Yes, we have had amazing additions, such as Gary Porter, who has bolstered our lineouts. The vast majority of our group have been together for a long time, and it is up to them to step up and show the world that we have always had the talent at home.”
Benade said every selection is guided by what is best for Zimbabwe rugby.
“We always do what is best for Zimbabwe rugby, not for individuals, and that applies to the coaching staff as well,” he said.
“We have amazing people coming in to add value, but I think you will see that 90 percent of the team sheet will consist of the players who took us through the qualification process.”
Kumbirai, who joined the squad after Zimbabwe had already secured qualification for the World Cup, insists he is in the team to strengthen rather than replace those who earned the country’s place in Australia.
“The one thing I told myself is to focus on adding value,” Kumbirai said.
“These guys qualified without me and they can go to the World Cup without me.
“I am not here to take anyone’s place, but if I can contribute to the group, then that is a positive.”
Zimbabwe squad
Victor Mupunga, Tijde Visser, Tyrone Gombe, Simba Mandioma, Liam Larkan, Bryan Chiang, Cleopas Kundiona, Farai Mudariki, Michael Kumbirai, Gary Porter, Tadiwanashe Gwashu, Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa, Blithe Mavesere, Dylan Utete, Godfrey Muzanargwo, Simba Siraha, Jason Fraser, Aiden Burnett, Hilton Mudariki, Keegan Joubert, Ian Prior, Bruce Houston, Edward Sigauke, Kudzai Mashawi, Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, Dion Khumalo, Trevor Gurwe, Matthew McNab, Tapiwa Gurwe, Tapiwa Mafura, Bornwell Gwinji, Takudzwa Musingwini, Jason Robertson
