Online Reporter
Tinashe Kusema
Zimpapers Sports Hub
KAMPALA calling!
The Zimbabwe Sables yesterday travelled to Uganda for what could be the most pivotal tournament in their recent history — the Rugby Africa Cup.
Excitement mingled with nerves, but there was no sign of panic.
That much was clear from captain Hilton Mudariki, who shared the team’s mood before departure.
“A few nerves here and there, but we’re super excited about the task ahead,” he said.
“The general vibe is positive. The boys are really looking forward to the trip.
“We’ve put in the work, now it’s just about getting to Uganda and starting our title defence.”
The Rugby Africa Cup, set for July 8 to 19 at Kampala’s Nelson Mandela Stadium, is more than just a trophy hunt.
It is a gateway to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
The stakes?
Champions qualify automatically for the World Cup and runners-up earn a second chance via the global repechage tournament.
Zimbabwe enter as defending champions, having lifted the trophy during last year’s “dry run” edition.
This time, the title carries even more weight.
Uganda, hosting for the second year in a row, are out to seize their moment.
They have left nothing to chance, embarking on a high-performance tour across Southern Africa and upgrading local facilities to match the occasion.
Their opener against bitter rivals Kenya promises fireworks.
Kenya, often the bridesmaids of African rugby, will be desperate to rewrite their narrative. Algeria continue their impressive rise, while Namibia, perennial World Cup qualifiers since 1999, remain dangerous despite recent struggles.
Also in the mix are dark horses Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal and Morocco, teams capable of a giant killing run on their day.
But make no mistake, all eyes are on Zimbabwe.
The Sables have quietly rebuilt under head coach Piet Benade, who took charge early last year.
Since then, the team is unbeaten, recording wins over Zambia (four times), Uganda, Namibia, Tunisia, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Botswana.
Now, World Cup qualification no longer feels like a fantasy.
It is within reach.
“Coach Piet has been excellent,” said Mudariki.
“He’s brought fresh ideas and built a coaching unit full of experience.
“We’ve had specialists for each department, and that has helped us grow, both as a team and individually.”
Benade’s influence has sparked belief again. The Sables no longer look like underdogs; they carry the aura of contenders.
Zimbabwe’s opening test comes against Morocco on Tuesday in the quarterfinals.
Morocco’s head coach, Kouder Gasmi, named a 27-man squad last week, 15 forwards and 12 backs, after earning their place with a 26-12 win over Tunisia in the repechage final.
This marks Morocco’s return to Africa’s top tier for the first time since 2018.
But Mudariki insists: “We’ve done our homework. Credit to the coaching staff for their analysis.
“While I can’t share details, we’ve worked on a few key areas. Morocco are a quality side, but we’re ready.”
Morocco are the only focus for now, but a semi-final against either Uganda or Kenya looms.
The Sables are not looking that far ahead.
“We take it game by game. Morocco is our final. We prep for that, then move on.”
Uganda has started to feel like home for the Sables. Last year’s warm reception left a lasting impression.
“Uganda is a great rugby-loving country,” said Mudariki. “They hosted us brilliantly last year. We made a few friends, and hopefully, that support carries over into this campaign.”
Zimbabwe squad
Forwards
Bryan Chiang, Simba Mandioma, Liam Larkan, Victor Mupunga, Tyrian Fagan, Zvikomborero Chimoto, Cleopas Kundiona, Brian Makamure, Brownell Gwinji, Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa, Simba Siraah, Tadiwa Gwashu, Simbarashe Manyau, Brian Nyaude, Aiden Burnett, Dylan Utete, Godfrey Muzanargwo, Tinotenda Mavesere
Backs
Hilton Mudariki (Captain), Keegan Joubert, Ian Prior, Lenience Tambwera, Tyrone Gombe, Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, Dion Khumalo, Kudakwashe Mashawi, Trevor Gurwe, Matthew McNab, Tapiwa Mafura, Takudzwa Musingwini, Edward Sigauke
Online Reporter