Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
AFTER months of anticipation, Zimbabwe’s senior men’s national rugby team is now venturing into uncharted territory. The 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, a landmark tournament, kicks off in just a couple of days.
Fresh from their remarkable undefeated run last year, the Sables depart for Kampala, Uganda, this morning, full of optimism.
They stand on the cusp of history, aiming to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia — a first in over three decades.
Dubbed “The Dream Team”, this Sables squad, carrying the aspirations of a nation, boasts a compelling blend of seasoned experience and exhilarating young talent.
Their campaign kicks off at the quarter-final stage this Tuesday against Morocco. A victory over the North Africans would set up a tantalising semi-final clash with the winner of the Kenya vs Uganda encounter.
As they strive to return to the global stage for the first time since 1991, head coach Pieter Benade exudes confidence. He believes his side, largely comprising players from last year’s victorious squad, is well-prepared to mount a formidable challenge. Benade also noted that their training regimen has primarily focused on morning sessions, a strategic move given their opening match against Morocco is scheduled for a 10 am kick-off.
“Our group of players is probably 80/90 percent from last year. We are relying a lot on continuity and team cohesion, hoping we get our improvement from that.
Last year snuck up on us. It’s going to be tough, it’s three matches and very importantly we need to take it one step at a time. We need to focus on Morocco, 10 o’clock in the morning, it will be a little bit unusual.
We are training now (in the morning), trying to get our sessions nice and early. Hopefully, we are ready to fire at 10am on Tuesday and live to fight another day,” said Benade.
Benade said that preparations for the tournament have gone well.
“They haven’t been too bad. We managed to get a good three weeks in. We had a couple of boys joining in late but I think all teams will have challenges in getting 40 or 50 guys into one area.
We had a little bit of money in the bank from last year, we are looking forward to putting on a good show. Everybody has looked to add to the squad, whether it’s in the technical department or players.
From last year, we are happy with where we were, we haven’t brought in anybody new in the technical stuff,” he said.
Captain Hilton Mudariki mirrored the coach’s optimism, confirming that morale within the camp is exceptionally high.
“The mood has been good. We can’t wait to get going, the preparations have been very good. Camp has been going well, the guys have brought new energy.
The guys that have come from overseas to join us have also brought in awesome energy, we are raring to go,” said Mudariki.
Zimbabwe named a 31-man for the tournament. The side welcomed back winger Matthew McNab who last played for the Sables at the 2022 World Cup Qualifiers in France.
Experienced flyhalf Lenience Tambwera also returned to the team following a lengthy absence.
Zimbabwe Squad for 2025 Africa Cup:
Forwards: Aiden Burnett, Bryan Chiang, Brian Makamure, Zvikomborero Chimoto, Victor Mupunga, Tyran Fagan, Jason Fraser, Bornwell Gwinji, Tadiwanashe Gwashu, Cleopas Kundiona, Liam Larkan, Simba Mandioma, Tino Mavesere, Godfrey Muzanargwo, Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa, Simbarashe Siraha, Dylan Utete, Brian Nyaude.
Backs: Hilton Mudariki (captain), Trevor Gurwe, Keegan Joubert, Dion Khumalo, Tapiwa Mafura, Matt McNab, Kudzai Mashawi, Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, Taku Musingwini, Ed Sigauke, Ian Prior, Lenience Tambwera, Tyrone Gombe.
