Kyle Godwin join Sables

Brandon Moyo

THE Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) has announced that former Australia centre Kyle Godwin has been cleared by World Rugby to play for the Sables.

The 32-year-old has one cap for the Wallabies and arrived in Zimbabwe on Monday to join the Sables team already in camp in preparation for their upcoming tour of the UAE and South Korea early next month.

This marks Godwin’s first visit to Zimbabwe in over twenty-five years.

Godwin made his Australia debut in 2016 against France having previously played for the Wallabies’ Under-20 side.

He currently plays for French club Lyon OU Rugby in the Top 14 competition. He 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 76 Super Rugby games.
He is the second former Australian international to trek back to Zimbabwe after fly-half Ian Prior made his Sables debut at the Africa Cup in July. The duo played together at Western Force.

Godwin said he looks forward to 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.

“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.