adminHarare Bureau
SABLES coach, Cyprian “Supa” Mandenge, says he is not moved by the fact that Kenya will play Portugal this weekend ahead of their clash on June 13 in Harare.Kenya are set to take on Portugal tomorrow as part of their preparations for the Africa Cup rugby tournament whose opening game is set for Prince Edward’s Jubilee Field in two weeks time with the Sables hosting Kenya.
The two sides last met in Madagascar during the World Cup qualifiers with Zimbabwe beating the East Africans 27-10.
But the two failed to make it for the global tournament as Namibia emerged victorious.
“Last year they spent quite a long time in South Africa and we still managed to beat them because we’ve the talent,” said Mandenge.
“We’ve the passion and, above all, the players here are willing to die for the (Zimbabwe) badge on their jerseys.
“It’s fortunate that they (Kenya) have the resources to play such games before a tournament like this and it’s different on our part because we don’t have the same amount of resources.
“I believe in what I have because our players know what it means to play for Zimbabwe.
“They (the Sables) have the talent, big hearts and with each of the sessions they’re getting better both in terms of quality and numbers.”
While Kenya play Portugal tomorrow, Zimbabwe Rugby Union general manager Sifiso Made said they will conduct national trials at ZB Sports Club where four teams will take part.
ZRU director of rugby, Brighton Chivandire, heads the selectors’ panel that also includes Mandenge, Max Madziva, former Young Sables coach Nsikelelo “Sykes” Sibanda, Reuben Kumpasa of Bulawayo and Cheetahs coach Daniel Hondo.
Online Reporter