Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
WHEN the Zimbabwe Sables last graced the Rugby World Cup in 1991, Kudakwashe “Goofy” Nyakufaringwa wasn’t even born. Yet, in a remarkable display of belief and perseverance, the now 31-year-old lock stands as a pivotal figure in Zimbabwean rugby history. His bold prediction last year — “We are going to go to the World Cup. Three years from now, we will be there. That’s all we’re thinking about — returning to the World Cup since 1991. I want to be part of that story” — has become a glorious reality.
Nyakufaringwa was a key part of the Sables squad that last week defeated Namibia 30-28, not only securing back-to-back Africa Cup titles but also sealing Zimbabwe’s long-awaited return to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
For Nyakufaringwa, the achievement was deeply personal.
“It was a surreal moment. The game had its ups and downs, disappointments and moments of joy. It’s been a long time coming,” he reflected. He paid tribute to those who laid the groundwork, particularly “people like Brendon Dawson, who truly believed in this dream. Seeing it come to life validates all the hard work over the years.”
Despite growing up immersed in rugby, with legends like his late uncle Arnold “Tuks” Takawira, Gilbert Nyamutsamba, and Victor Olonga surrounding him, a World Cup appearance wasn’t always his personal ambition. “I never imagined I’d play in the World Cup. It wasn’t really a dream of mine until a few years ago,” he admitted. He dedicated the victory to “everyone who came before me — coaches, players, and all who dared to dream. . . Every domino led to this moment. Each person was a piece of the puzzle. Huge respect and gratitude for the sacrifice, the blood, sweat and tears over the years that brought the jersey to where it is today.”
The Sables’ impressive World Cup qualification journey began with a commanding 43-8 win over Morocco, followed by a 29-23 semi-final victory against Kenya before their climactic showdown with Namibia. Though Nyakufaringwa missed the final due to injury, he believes the team’s shared, unwavering goal was their driving force.
“When a group of people share a single goal and truly believe in it, they become a force to be reckoned with,” he stated, attributing their success to “the dedication, courage and belief we had as a group.” As they now prepare for Australia, the Sables are not content with merely making up the numbers. In the words of their coach, “qualifying for the World Cup is not the pinnacle — we must go there to compete and win games.” Nyakufaringwa echoed this sentiment, asserting, “we know we’re going to the World Cup to compete, not just to show up.”
Goofy ultimately hopes their historic achievement inspires young boys to believe in their dreams and push even further than his team has.
— @brandon_malvin
