NEW: Du Rand backs Sables to conquer

Online Reporter

FORMER Zimbabwe Sables international, Robbie Du Rand, has had his first say on the country’s chances at both next month’s Currie Cup tournament and the 2023 World Cup qualifiers slated for France in July.

Appearing on the Supersport program ‘Phaka’, the Sables’ interim marketing, events and sponsorship manager backed Zimbabwe to do well in both tournaments and called for a total buy-in from the corporate world.

“We have quite a few options for corporates, and they fit in with all their budgets,” said Du Rand.

“We have the bronze, silver, and right up to the platinum packages which, of course, is your title and main sponsors.

“Should all that funding come in place, it will allow us to give the boys everything that they need and results will follow.

“First it is the Currie Cup, and then we have the world cup qualifiers, and I truly believe that these guys (Sables) can do it.

“If the corporates can get behind Zimbabwe and the Sables, I believe we can get the desired results,” he said.

Du Rand is so far happy with the support that has come in, especially the arrival of Nedbank, who are the team’s main sponsor.

However, he believes that more can still be done on that front.

“A lot of sponsorship can still be brought on, I think we are at a starting point where we do have a very good title sponsor that has come on board,” said the marketing, events and sponsorship manager.

“However, there are a lot of costs involved with running a team, with things like accommodation and flights needing money.

“With Zimbabwe coming into the Currie Cup, we have had to sort out traveling expenses for that tournament.

“Jason Maritz and his team have done a good job so far, and now I have to come in and will try to utilise the context and networks that we have in South Africa and globally,” he said.

Zimbabwe will next month be involved in the South Africa Currie Cup Division One, a tournament the team will be using as preparations for the Africa Cup.

The team will be based in South Africa for the duration of the tournament, after which they are expected to fly to France for the Africa Cup.

The Africa Cup knock-out competition will double as qualifiers for the 2023 Rugby World Cup also penciled for France.