Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Brandon Moyo, [email protected]
THE stage is set for a potentially exhilarating encounter between the Zimbabwe men’s Under-20 national rugby team, the Junior Sables and the Queensland Outback Barbarians side from Australia who are set to clash at Hartsfield Rugby Grounds tomorrow.
It will be an interesting day of rugby when the two sides face off in what promises to be an explosive encounter between two teams that boast of immense talent within their ranks.
It will be a carnival atmosphere at the home of rugby where preparations for the match have intensified.
In an interview with Zimpapers Sports Hub, Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) vice president South Thembelani Ncube, said it’s all systems go and the Junior Sables have been hard at work in preparation for the match.
“The Junior Sables have been making steady progress in their preparations for the upcoming game. Through dedicated training sessions, the team has been working on analysing their strengths and weaknesses, as well as refining their strategies. They are eagerly looking forward to the challenge of facing the Australian team and are confident in their abilities.
“In addition to preparing the team, efforts have also been made to ensure that the venue meets the necessary standards for hosting the teams, with collaboration from Bulawayo Metropolitan Rugby Football Board,” said Ncube.
Ncube added that the forthcoming game offers a rare opportunity for the Shaun De Souza-mentored Junior Sables side to test themselves against a strong international opponent. The match will also be used by Zimbabwe as part of their preparations for the 2025 Barthes Trophy.
“The arrival of the Australian team for the match holds great significance for the Junior Sables. It offers a unique opportunity for the team to test their skills against a strong international opponent. The experience gained from this game will be invaluable for the team’s overall development and progress. This upcoming match is particularly important for the Junior Sables as they prepare for the Barthes Cup.
“It allows the team to fine-tune their strategies, build momentum, and boost their confidence ahead of the tournament. A victory against the Australian team would greatly uplift the team’s morale,” he said.
There are two other matches lined up for tomorrow before the headline encounter. Milton Boys’ High Elephants will clash against Plumtree High School Amabhubesi in the curtain raising match.
This match — starting at 12.20pm — will then be followed by Zimbabwe South Under-20 women against Zimbabwe North Under-20 women scheduled to start at 13.30pm.
The main event is then scheduled for 15.30pm. All matches will be played at Hartsfield.
Ncube also called on all the rugby faithful to come through in numbers and witness international rugby in action while rallying behind their respective teams.
“Hosting an international match is of great importance for Hartsfield and Bulawayo. It brings excitement and pride to the community, showcasing the city’s hospitality and rugby culture. Additionally, the match will contribute to the promotion of rugby development in the region.
“We invite all rugby enthusiasts to come and support the Junior Sables on Wednesday.
“Expect an exciting match against the strong Australian team. Let us join together in filling the stadium with enthusiasm and cheering our team to victory. Don’t miss this thrilling opportunity to witness international rugby in action,” said Ncube.
De Souza has named his 26-man squad for the match. The team will be captained by Emmanuel Tawana Gabi.
Zimbabwe Under 20 Junior Sables Team for Queensland Outback Barbarians
Emmanuel Tawana Gabi (captain), Takudzwa Matsvimbo, Kudzai Waylen Tsvakirai, Joseph Ndovorwi, Louange Ujenza Mutima (co-vice-captain), Wayne Kuraimunashe, Tafara Dewa, Nyasha Ngwarati, Mayibongwe Ncube, Tinashe Nyanyiwa, Pharrell Mudiwa Maziwa, Kudzai Chenda, Rufaro Shenje, Shaun Kuda Ndowa, Wayne Kunaka, Tatenda Kambvumbi, Tafadzwa Chataika, Tinotenda Rusike (co-vice-captain), Tadiwanashe Unganai, Tadiwanashe Maradze, Munangi Kamwendo, Shammah Jackson (co-vice-captain), PK Manyakara, Tinotenda Chinyadza, Phillip Chimhaka, Ethan Chaponda. — @brandon_malvin
Online Reporter