Kyle Godwin Boosts Sables’ World Cup Hopes

ZIMBABWE’S 2027 Rugby World Cup qualification bid has received a significant boost with the arrival of former Australia centre Kyle Godwin.

The Sables are on the quest to build a formidable side for next year’s Africa Cup which serves as the direct qualifier to the global showpiece Down Under.

Godwin’s arrival comes in as a timely boost for the Piet Benade led Zimbabwean team. The former Wallabies star arrived in the country on Monday evening and immediately joined the national team camp that is preparing for a tour to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and South Korea early next month.

This marks Godwin’s first visit to Zimbabwe in over twenty-five years. The accomplished centre, who has made a name for himself as an international rugby player, is now eligible to represent Zimbabwe as the team aims to secure a spot in the next World Cup.

Known for his skills as an inside centre, Godwin is poised to form a formidable partnership with fellow Sable and former Western Force teammate Ian Prior who retraced his roots to Zimbabwe in July.

Speaking upon his arrival, Godwin said he is looking forward to the challenge of helping the Sables in their quest to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Zimbabwe last played at the global showpiece in 1991.

“I’ve been in touch with Ian Prior and he had a fantastic experience with the Sables in July,” Godwin shared.

“I’m excited to be part of the positive energy surrounding Zimbabwe Rugby right now. I hope to contribute to our efforts in qualifying for the World Cup. Zimbabwe has produced some incredible rugby talent, and I look forward to seeing our players compete on the world stage,” said Godwin.

Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) CEO Sifiso Made confirmed Godwin’s eligibility to play for Zimbabwe following approval from the World Rugby Regulations Committee.

“Kyle Godwin has always been on our radar, and I’m delighted that the requirements for his birthright transfer from Australia have been met. His inclusion in the Sables is a significant boost to our campaign for World Cup qualification,” said Made.

Godwin was an Australian professional rugby union player who made his international debut for the Wallabies against France in 2016.

He plays for French club Lyon OU Rugby in the Top 14 competition and has previously represented the Western Force and Brumbies in Super Rugby, where he made his debut in 2012 against the Queensland Reds in Perth.

Over his career, he has played a total of 76 Super Rugby games. Additionally, Godwin was part of the Australia under-20 team that competed in the 2012 IRB Junior World Championship in South Africa.

As the Sables gear up for their November tour, the addition of a player of Godwin’s caliber is sure to energise the squad and enhance their prospects on the international stage.

With Godwin joining the Sables, another player believed to be on ZRU’s is one-capped All Blacks loose forward Gareth Evans.

ZRU is also believed to have reached out to South Africa based lock, Darrien-Lane Landsberg who plays for the Lions. However, the 26-year-old is said to be eyeing the Springboks instead. —@brandon_malvin