Chronicle Editor
Mehluli Sibanda, Sports Editor
ZIMBABWE national sevens rugby team captain, Kudzai Mashawi has announced his retirement from representing the country in this format of the game.
Mashawi released a statement on Facebook yesterday stating that he was stepping away from the Cheetahs.
The 29-year old Mashawi’s announcement comes after he captained Zimbabwe at the Rugby World Cup Sevens held in Cape Town, South Africa in September.
The Cheetahs finished 23 out of 24 men’s teams at the tournament.
“It is with a heavy heart that I have to announce to you my support system and fans my move away from the Zimbabwe Cheetahs. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support and encouragement throughout my journey.
“Good times and bad you have stood by me. It’s made a permanent mark on my rugby career and I enjoyed my time,” announced Mashawi.
He stated that he felt honoured for him to lead the Zimbabwean team made up of passionate players. While he is stepping away from the Cheetahs, Mashawi indicated that he was not completely walking away from the sport.
“To be named captain for the nation was an honour and more so leading a group of passionate, dedicated young men who live and breathe nothing but outmost pride for the Cheetahs jersey. Unfortunately it’s a part of the journey we all have to partake in and my time is now. I will definitely still be on the field just in a different jersey,” stated Mashawi.
With the Cheetahs to play in the Dubai Sevens early next month, coach Graham Kaulback is now expected to name a new captain. — @Mdawini_29
Online Reporter