Online Reporter
Tinashe Kusema in Kampala
PIET Benade had the look of a man quietly ticking boxes.
On a wet Tuesday in Kampala, Zimbabwe’s Sables began their Rugby Africa Cup title defence with a clinical 43–8 win over Morocco, an important first step in their road to redemption after the bruising humiliation in South Africa just weeks ago.
That two match whitewash at the hands of the Springboks’ XV side left Zimbabwe rugby exposed. It wasn’t just the margin of defeat, it was the gulf in class, cohesion and competitiveness. It was a reminder of how far behind the Sables had fallen when measured against Tier One opposition.
But in Kampala, under grey skies and on soaked turf, they responded.
Match day one followed the expected script. Zimbabwe, Kenya, Namibia and Algeria, the top four seeds, all romped to big wins. The Sables led the charge with a dominant display over recently promoted Morocco, while Algeria thumped Côte d’Ivoire 41–6. Namibia crushed Senegal 55–7, and Kenya edged hosts Uganda 32–24 in the day’s headline clash.
That sets up a tantalising semi-final between Zimbabwe and Kenya, a fixture with edge, history and high stakes. Namibia and Algeria will battle in the other semi.
The losers, Morocco, Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal and Uganda still have placement games to play, but the real business now begins. Despite the convincing margin, Benade wasn’t celebrating too loudly.
“A bit of a rusty start in tough conditions, but the boys settled into their work nicely and, fortunately, came away with a decent performance and result,” he said.
“After not having played as a group for a while, there were some concerns, but the training camp and time together in the build-up proved enough to get the ball rolling.”
The early morning downpour made conditions tricky, especially for Zimbabwe’s traditionally quick, expansive game. Morocco’s set piece style was also affected, and the match became a tactical grind for territory. But Zimbabwe adapted faster. Tries from Tapiwa Mafura, Edward Sigauke, Dylan Utete and Trevor Gurwe sealed the deal. Flyhalf Ian Prior was impeccable, nailing five penalties and four conversions for a personal haul of 23 points.
“In Harare, we had a few summer games early in the season, so we’re actually used to training in wet conditions,” said Benade.
“We try to prepare for all scenarios, but of course, handling becomes tricky when the ball is slippery. Getting it to our outside backs was a challenge at first.
“Fortunately, our lineout and scrum were solid, and it was great to fall back on that when needed.”
On Prior, Benade was full of praise but not surprised.
“Ian has been one of the key members of the Sables and a great addition,” he said. “Along with a few other standout performers, we’re very lucky to have their talent showing what Zimbabwe can produce.”
Up next? A familiar foe.
As expected, Kenya stands in Zimbabwe’s path to the final, and the entire Sables camp got the chance to scout their rivals up close. “Kenya will be a massive challenge,” Benade admitted. “Beating Uganda here at home isn’t easy. They have big, athletic men and a few great playmakers. We’ll need to be at our very best to compete.”
The South Africa tour exposed the cracks. The Rugby Africa Cup offers a shot at repairing them, if only slightly.
But for now, Benade and his men will take the win, the momentum and the next big test, Kenya, head on.
Londile Moyo