adminPaul Munyuki Harare Bureau
FOREIGN-BASED Sables have started trooping in as the Zimbabwe senior national rugby side prepares for their Africa Cup opener against Kenya at Prince Edward School in 11 days time.
The United Kingdom-based flanking duo of Kingsley Lang and Andrew Rose are already in the country while South Africa-based fly-half, Lenience Tambwera, and Lawrence Clemenson, are expected to jet in today.
Yesterday the Zimbabwe Rugby Union named an extended 43-man training squad ahead of their training camp, expected to start on Saturday, adding that the rest of the players will be in by Sunday.
At least seven top players, including Cheetahs captain and flanker Jacques Leitao, have indicated they will not be able to make it for both the camp and the Africa Cup opener but coach Cyprian “Supa” Mandenge says he is happy with the arsenal at his disposal.
“These are the guys that have put up their hands to play for Zimbabwe and I’m happy with the quality of players,” said Mandenge.
“We’ve to work hard and use every minute of our preparations.”
Sables Training Squad
Forwards: Denford Mutamangira, Tatenda Murwira, Farai Mudariki, Pieter Joubert, Lawrence Clemenson, Royal Mwale, Kudzai Muzorewa, Jan Ferreira, Martin Wolfenden, Sanele Sibanda, Biselele Tshamala, Tadiwa Parirenyatwa, Graeme Lawler, Andrew Rose, Fortune Chipendu, Kingsley Lang, Shingai Mpofu, Tapiwa Tsomondo, Osborne Muhambi, Tawanda Chowe, Kudakwaishe Chisepo.
Backs: Charles Jiji, Taddy Whata, Takura Tela, Tichafara Makwanya, Lenience Tambwera, Boyd Rouse, Riaan O’Neil, Taku Chieza, Steven Hunduza, Gardner Nechironga, Tafadzwa Chitokwindo, Tangai Nemadire, Lungile Tshuma, Maparura Malvern, Mandivenga Brendon, Cleopas Makotose, Daniel Caps, Kuda Chiwanza, Mclean Muhambi, Andrea Banda, Philimon Machisa, Kelvin Magunje.
Online Reporter