Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo Zimpapers Sports Hub
SHE’S done it again – and this time, it’s global!
Zimbabwe’s top rugby referee, Precious Pazani, has smashed through yet another glass ceiling, becoming the first African ref outside South Africa to be selected for the Women’s Rugby World Cup.
In a stunning Thursday announcement by World Rugby, Pazani was revealed as one of six assistant referees set to blow the whistle at the 2025 global showpiece in England. She joins a star-studded officiating crew, sharing the stage with refereeing giants from powerhouses like New Zealand, France, and England.
But it’s Pazani’s trailblazing status that has tongues wagging from Harare to Harrogate!
“This is HUGE for Africa,” gushed Mudiwa Mundawarara, Referees Manager at Rugby Africa. “Precious has worked her socks off. We’re beyond proud. She’s paving the way.”
The 34-year-old referee is no stranger to history-making moments. In March, she became the first African referee (outside SA) to take charge of a Women’s Six Nations match, overseeing England’s clash with Italy. Now, she’s preparing for the biggest gig of her life, the World Cup, set to run from 22 August to 27 September.
While South Africa’s Aimee Barrett-Theron and Quinton Immelman (as TMO) will also represent Africa, it’s Zimbabwe’s Pazani who’s carrying the flag for the rest of the continent.
She’s bulldozing new frontiers every year.
Full List of Match Officials Includes:
Referees from Australia, New Zealand, France, Italy, USA, and more.
Assistant Referees: Precious Pazani (Zimbabwe) among elite company.
TMOs: Only three Africans, and she’s the only non-South African woman on deck!
Zim’s got talent. And Precious? She’s golden.
Watch this space – the Queen of the Whistle is just getting started.
