Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
A new chapter begins today for the Zimbabwe senior women’s national rugby team, the Lady Sables, as they land in Côte d’Ivoire to kick-start their Rugby Africa Women’s Cup campaign — led by a fresh captain and burning with belief that they can upset the odds.
Mentored by Nsikelelo “Sykes” Sibanda, the Lady Sables left Harare yesterday and are expected to take on the hosts in their tournament opener this Friday.
In a major leadership change announced ahead of their departure, seasoned tight-head prop Skumbuzo “Sku” Muchenje was named captain of the squad. The 30-strong team will also be guided by vice-captains Vimbai Dewa and Tarren Munodaani as they seek a breakthrough performance on the continental stage.
A stalwart of the forward pack, Muchenje brings extensive leadership experience, having captained False Bay in 2023, the University of Cape Town from 2018 to 2020, and the Zimburu Titans. Her return to the sport, following a brief hiatus, has injected calm confidence into the Lady Sables’ campaign.
“It’s an honour to be named captain, especially among such talented and passionate women,” Muchenje said. “We know we’re not favourites, but we’re not here to make up the numbers either. If we play our game, stay disciplined and believe in each other, we might just cause an upset early on.”
Reflecting on her time away from the game, Muchenje said stepping back was essential, but the call to return proved irresistible after she relocated back to Zimbabwe a year ago.
“I wouldn’t say I had retired, but rather, I had taken some much-needed time off due to various personal commitments and circumstances. Once I was settled back here, it was clear to me that I had more to offer the sport. I knew I could come back and contribute once again,” she said.
Her comeback has been fuelled by purpose, marked by renewed dedication to both personal growth and team success.
“I’ve worked diligently to refine my overall rugby IQ, ensuring that I continue to grow both as a player and a leader.
Alongside that, I focused on my fitness and ball skills, eager to ensure I remain competitive at the highest level,” said the new skipper.
Zimbabwe’s squad blends seasoned campaigners with exciting young prospects, including Gabriella Chawatama, Fadzai Mandizha and rising star, Ruvimbo Mudyanadzo. With a trio of leaders at the helm and a diverse squad of talent, the Lady Sables are quietly optimistic.
The tournament features Zimbabwe, hosts Cote d’Ivoire, Uganda and Tunisia, with only the top team earning qualification to the Rugby Africa Cup, where continental giants South Africa, Kenya and Madagascar await.
Lady Sables Full Squad:
Vimbai Dewa (Vice Captain), Skumbuzo Muchenje (Captain), Mbalehle Mzizi, Mabel Marungweni, Tariro Nyamudeza, Patience Harubereki, Mercy Runesu, Gabriella Chawatama, Rutendo Morosi, Fadzai Mandizha, Erika Mack, Natalia Nyabinde, Wadzanai Chidawa, Hazel Njaya, Chiwaniso Mabika, Tanaka Mutaramutswa, Simphiwe Gumbo, Ropafadzo Muzanechita, Kudzai Wasili, Tarren Munodaani (Vice Captain), Memory Moyo, Nokutenda Shoriwa, Cleopatra Kadimu, Pauline Sianga, Rufaro Tagarira, Ruvimbo Mudyanadzo, Lovelight Fusire, Kudzanai Chirinda.
Non-travelling Reserves: Bridget Magaso, Robyn Mhembere.
