Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
As the Zimbabwe senior men’s rugby team, the Sables, prepare to kick-start their international season this Saturday, all eyes are on one of their most exciting returning stars, Shingi Katsvere.
The dynamic midfield maestro, who plies his trade in France, is back home donning the iconic green and white jersey once more after being named in the squad for the Zambezi Series, a tri-nation tournament featuring Zimbabwe,
Zambia and Botswana. Katsvere returned to Zimbabwe on April 26 after nearly two years away.
Driven by a deep desire to reconnect with the brotherhood and proudly represent his country again, the former Junior Sables standout said it was an honour to be called up once more.
“It’s an honour and a blessing. Not everyone gets to experience this twice,” said Katsvere.
After battling through injury setbacks and rebuilding himself both physically and mentally, Katsvere now returns to a Sables side brimming with talent and belief.
With two crucial home games coming up in 2025, he is eager to help write a bold new chapter for himself, and for the team.
Katsvere is part of the 40-man squad announced by head coach Pieter Benade for the upcoming Battle of the Zambezi.
The series, which gets underway this Sunday, will see Zimbabwe hosting Zambia at Harare Sports Club before taking on Botswana six days later, again in the capital.
Local-based players have been entrusted with carrying the nation’s hopes in this campaign as the Sables look to fine-tune ahead of a critical international season.
“We took a short break after the international window closed in November last year, but we’ve been back at work since January. You can tell from the commitment and work ethic that the boys want this more than ever,” said team manager Takunda Chifokoyo.
“Our locally based players have been gelling really well, some great combinations have developed, and we’re excited about testing ourselves against Zambia and Botswana. The Battle of the Zambezi won’t have a dull moment, this is our showcase to the local fans, and we thrive off their support.”
The Zambezi Series comes at a pivotal time for Zimbabwe Rugby. In July, the Sables will head to Uganda to defend their Rugby Africa Cup title.
The stakes are even higher this year, as the tournament doubles as the direct qualifier for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with only one ticket to Australia up for grabs.
As preparations ramp up, the pressure and excitement is mounting. The Sables will be aiming to build momentum, test their depth, and ignite support across Zimbabwe ahead of the continental showdown.
Zimbabwe were drawn into Group A for the Africa Cup and will start their campaign at the quarter-final stage against Morocco. Group rivals Kenya and Uganda will clash in the other quarter-final, with the winners set to meet in the semi-finals.
Group B features Namibia, Senegal, Cote d’Ivoire and Algeria. Namibia will face Senegal while Algeria take on Cote d’Ivoire in the other quarter-final.
Zimbabwe Squad for Zambezi Series:
Front Row: Jeff Makoni, Zvikomborero Chimoto, Deanne Makoni, Wade Petzer, Brain Makamure, Bornwell Gwinji, Bryan Chang, Vuyiswa Mpofu, Tanaka Mpofu.
Second Row: David Makamba, Nyasha Shiripinda, Takunda Kundishora, Tadiwa Parirenyatwa, Hagler Muchenje.
Back Row: Tadiwa Gwashu, Vuyani Dhlomo, Brian Nyaude, Aiden Burnett (vc), Tonderai Chiwambutsa, Quinton Jones, Admire Shonhiwa, Lucky Sithole.
Half Backs: Hilton Mudariki (c), Tyrone Gombe, Nigel Tinarwo, Lenience Tambwera, Tino Chifumbu, Wayne Kunaka, Boyd Rouse.
Midfield: Tapiwa Malenga, Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, Tamuka Pamire, Dion Khumalo (vc), Shingi Katsvere, Munopa Muneta, Kudzai Mashawi (vc).
Outside Backs: Darrel Makwasha, Munesu Muneta, Trevor Gurwe, Gamu Nekati, Munyaradzi Ngandu, Puwavi Chinoda, Tadius Dzandiwandira, Ryan Mushumi, Campbell Nyakudya, Benoni Nekairo.
