Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, [email protected]
A DREAM year culminated in national acclaim as the Zimbabwe Sables, fresh from their historic 2024 triumphs, were crowned flag bearers of Zimbabwean sport at the prestigious Annual National Sports Awards in Harare.
Benade’s side was named Team of the Year at the awards ceremony, the accolade serving as a fitting tribute to a year defined by excellence, discipline, and national pride, as they continued their ascent on the continental and global stage. After a stellar 2024 season that included an emphatic win over old rivals Namibia, a clean sweep in all their matches, winning the 2024 Rugby Africa Cup — their first in 12 years — and a climb to 28th in the World Rugby Rankings, Zimbabwe’s highest position in a decade, the Sables’ efforts were recognised and celebrated by the wider sports community.
This has been described as not just a victory for rugby, but a resounding moment for Zimbabwean sport. The team’s leadership took time to revel in the glory of their achievements and national recognition. The architect behind the team’s remarkable run in 2024, Benade, said it was a humbling experience to win the prestigious award.
“It’s amazing for the effort to be recognised and achievements to be celebrated. Now we’ve got a big job ahead — to make another special year happen that all Zimbabwean sports fans can be proud of,” said Benade.
The Sables are now preparing for the 2025 Africa Cup, which serves as the direct qualifier for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. Only one ticket is available for the global showpiece from the tournament, and the Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) have pledged to leave no stone unturned in ensuring the team receives the best possible preparation. The continental showdown is scheduled for Uganda in July.
Team Manager Takunda “TJ” Chifokoyo echoed similar sentiments to Benade, saying they are looking forward to flying the Zimbabwean flag high once again in 2025.
“What an incredible achievement. To be recognised by the greater sports community is a testament to the hard work the boys put in. We are tremendously honoured to be the Team of the Year and look forward to making our nation proud again in 2025,” said Chifokoyo.
Scrumhalf and captain, Hilton Mudariki, who led the squad with composure and vision throughout the year, expressed his delight at the honour. He said the recognition was testament to the hard work they put in last year, which saw them reap worthy rewards. Last year, Mudariki also celebrated an individual milestone with the Sables, reaching 50 caps in the iconic green and white strip.
“It’s a special feeling to win Team of the Year. It’s a true testament to how hard the team worked throughout 2024,” said Mudariki.
One of the standout performers from last year’s historic year, loose-forward and vice-captain Aiden Bennet, said he is looking forward to 2025.
The Sables are yet to kick-start their campaign this year, but have already started a strength and conditioning programme.
“I’m super proud and honoured by this achievement. I can’t wait for what the year ahead holds,” he said.
Veteran front rower and two-time Africa Cup winner Brian Makamure said it was a rewarding moment and is also looking forward to what 2025 has to offer.
“It’s great to be up here again and for the team to be getting the recognition we deserve. Onto the main event,” said Makamure.
Another vice-captain, Kudzai Mashawi, said winning the Team of the Year award is an honour and he is proud to have been recognised for carrying the country’s flag.
The Sables’ success at the ANSA Awards not only validates the work done over the past year, but it also fuels excitement for what lies ahead. With a passionate fan base behind them and a clear vision for the future, Zimbabwe’s national rugby team is forging a path that inspires young athletes across the country.
As the team prepares for the difficult task ahead, the Sables have a number of international assignments lined up before their trip to Uganda. The team will face Zambia in home and away games before an encounter against Botswana. Also in the pipeline are matches against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the United States of America (USA) Under-23s in June. The ZRU is also arranging a fixture against a South African provincial team.
Zimbabwe — placed in Group A — will start their Africa Cup campaign at the quarter-final stage against Morocco, while other group members Kenya and Uganda play each other. The winners of these two matches will meet in the first semi-final. Group B comprises Namibia, Senegal, Ivory Coast and Algeria. Namibia will face Senegal, while Algeria will lock horns against Ivory Coast.
@brandon_malvin
