Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Sables step into a new chapter today as Zimbabwe’s senior men’s rugby team waits to discover its 2027 Rugby World Cup opponents. The draw will be made in Sydney, marking a significant moment that confirms their long road back to the sport’s grand stage and ushers in a fresh, expanded format.
Zimbabwe returns to the World Cup after more than three decades, with Australia set to host a record 24 teams. This will be the Sables’ third appearance at the global showpiece and their first since 1991.
Their place in the tournament was secured in Kampala, where they edged Namibia 30-28 to lift the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup. That victory ended a 36-year wait and snapped Namibia’s run of seven consecutive World Cup qualifications. It also sealed Zimbabwe’s second successive continental crown, built on composure and a strong finish against their long-time rivals.
Zimbabwe joins South Africa as Africa’s representatives at the 2027 event. The extended format has reshaped the competition. Previously, 20 teams were placed in four pools of five, with the top two advancing straight to the quarter-finals. Australia 2027 introduces six pools of four teams each and adds a Round of 16.
The top two teams from each pool will qualify for the knockouts, joined by the four best third-placed sides. Competition points will determine those extra qualifiers, followed by points difference and try difference if needed.
World Rugby chairperson Brett Robinson said the expanded spectacle marks a major shift in the global game.
“With only two years until the biggest Men’s Rugby World Cup ever, I’m thrilled to see the tournament draw date revealed. The draw brings the potential match-ups to life, rivalries are set and fans across the globe can envision the unforgettable rugby that awaits.
“Expanding Men’s Rugby World Cup to 24 teams is a landmark moment for our sport. It means more nations, more matches, and more opportunities for fans around the world to connect with rugby.
“The introduction of a Round of 16 will deliver even more knockout rugby, ensuring every match counts and every team has the chance to make history. Importantly, we’ve been able to achieve this within a streamlined tournament window that protects player welfare while enhancing the spectacle. This is a huge step forward for rugby and a reflection of the game’s global growth.”
The draw will rely on the World Rugby Men’s Rankings from the end of the November internationals. The 24 teams are placed into four bands of six, with each band drawn across Pools A to F. Zimbabwe, ranked 24th, sits in Band Four alongside Samoa, Portugal, Romania, Hong Kong and Canada.
