Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Sables will today know their 2027 Rugby World Cup opponents.
The draw will be made in Sydney, Australia.
It’s a moment that confirms the Sables’ long road back to the sport’s grand stage.
The Sables are returning to the World Cup after more than three decades.
The tournament will be held in Australia and there will be a record 24 teams.
This will be the Sables’ third appearance at the global showpiece and their first since 1991.
Their place in the tournament was earned in Kampala, Uganda, where they edged Namibia 30 28 to lift the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup.
That victory ended a 36-year wait and snapped Namibia’s run of seven straight World Cup qualifications.
It also secured Zimbabwe’s second successive continental crown, built on composure and a strong finish against their long-time rivals.
Zimbabwe join South Africa as Africa’s representatives at the 2027 event.
The extended format has changed the shape of the competition.
The previous system had 20 teams placed in four pools of five, with the top two moving straight to the quarter-finals. Australia 2027 brings six pools of four teams each and adds a Round of 16.
The top two teams from each pool qualify for the knockouts and they will be joined by the four best third-placed sides. Competition points will decide those extra qualifiers, then points difference and try difference if needed.
World Rugby chairperson, Brett Robinson, said the expanded spectacle marks a major shift in the global game.
“With only two years until the biggest Men’s Rugby World Cup ever, I’m thrilled to see the tournament draw date revealed.
“The draw brings the potential match-ups to life, rivalries are set and fans across the globe can envision the unforgettable rugby that awaits.
“Expanding Men’s Rugby World Cup to 24 teams is a landmark moment for our sport.
“It means more nations, more matches, and more opportunities for fans around the world to connect with rugby.”
He added:
“The introduction of a round of 16 will deliver even more knockout rugby, ensuring every match counts and every team has the chance to make history.
“Importantly, we’ve been able to achieve this within a streamlined tournament window that protects player welfare while enhancing the spectacle.
“This is a huge step forward for rugby and a reflection of the game’s global growth.”
The draw will rely on the World Rugby Men’s Rankings from the end of the November internationals.
The 24 teams are placed into four bands of six, with each band drawn across Pools A to F. Zimbabwe, ranked twenty fourth, sits in band four with Samoa, Portugal, Romania, Hong Kong and Canada.
