Benade names Sables charges

Zimpapers Sports Hub

SABLES coach Piet Benade has rung in six changes to his starting 15 for today’s hugely-anticipated match against South Korea at the Southeast Asia Rugby Stadium, South Korea.

The clash is Zimbabwe’s final match of their Middle East and Asia tour and also their final match of the year before the team put their 2025 Africa Cup preparations on ice for the holidays.

Benade has introduced a few changes to the starting line-up with adjustments aimed at enhancing the team’s strength and versatility.

Out is the duo of Jovan Bekker and Munashe Mhere, who have been relegated to the bench for Tyran Fagan and Simbarashe Mandioma at the loose-head prop and hooker positions. Former Wallabies Kyle Godwin is in line for his first start for Zimbabwe as the 29-year-old starts at the outside centre position.

Brendon Mudzekenyedzi, who started the 62-22 win over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at outside centre has since been moved to the wing in place of Trevor Gurwe.

Gurwe is set join Bekker and Mhere on the bench.

Benade also tinkered with his selection a little more as Tino Masevere has been moved to his preferred flank position, while Aiden Burnette replaces him at eighth-man.

Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa is in line for his first start of the tour and comes in at the second row position.

There was good news for the Sables camp ahead of today’s match as Nyakufaringwa, Mandioma and Tadius Hwata have been all declared fit for the match.

The trio were among the Sables injury list with a swollen knee, foot and knee injuries respectively.

They have all been cleared to play, but the duo of Godfrey Muzanargwo and Brian Makamure remain unavailable for this fixture due to ongoing recoveries. The South Korea match is also set to see significant milestones for captain Hilton Mudariki and Mandioma as both are set to earn their 50th cap for Zimbabwe – a testament to their commitment, skill, and leadership on the field.

Their contributions have been instrumental to the Sables’ development and success, and this landmark will be celebrated by teammates and fans alike.

Starting XV:

Tyran Fagan, 2. Simba Mandioma, 3. Bornwell Gwinji, 4. Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa, 5. Simba Siraha, 6. Dylan Utete, 7. Tino Mavesere, 8. Aiden Burnette, 9. Hilton Mudariki (Captain), 10. Ian Prior, 11. Edward Sigauke, 12. Kudzai Mashawi (Vice-Captain), 13. Kyle Godwin, 14. Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, 15. Tadius Hwata

Replacements