Online Reporter
By Brandon Moyo Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zambezi Cheetahs are on a mission. Zimbabwe’s senior men’s rugby sevens side has jetted off to Mauritius, fired up and hungry to end a 13-year wait for silverware at the 2025 Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens Cup.
Head coach Ricky Chirengende is brimming with confidence as his 12-man squad, a mix of seasoned campaigners and explosive new talent, gets ready to take on the continent’s best this weekend.
“It’s been a long time since we assembled a squad this strong. We’ve made up for lost prep time with pure quality. We are going out to bring back the big prize,” declared Chirengende.
The Cheetahs face Tunisia, hosts Mauritius, and Madagascar on June 21, hoping to finish top and punch their ticket to the World Rugby Challenger Series. A strong run could also reignite Zimbabwe’s Olympic hopes.
Team captain Tapiwa Malenga says the players are locked in.
“We are confident, focused and ready. This tournament is our ticket back to consistent international competition,” said Malenga.
The squad includes the likes of Vuyani Dhlomo, Dion Khumalo and Tinotenda “Blithe” Mavesere, names expected to light up the turf in Mauritius.
Zambezi Cheetahs Squad:
Vuyani Dhlomo, Munashe Duku¬swa, Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, Edward Sigauke, Godfrey Magaramombe, Ryan Musumhi, Tapiwa Malenga (Captain), Dion Khumalo, Tapiwa Mafura, Tinotenda Blithe Mavesere, Carlos Matematema, Trevor Gurwe.
Technical Team:
Ricky Chirengende (Head Coach), Tafadzwa Mhende (Manager), Thelma Musingwini (Physio)
Fixtures – June 21:
Zimbabwe vs Tunisia (morning)
Zimbabwe vs Mauritius (midday)
Zimbabwe vs Madagascar (afternoon)
