Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira
Zimpapers
ZIMBABWE’S long-awaited return to the Rugby World Cup will begin with the Sables taking on Wales at the Adelaide Oval on October 2, 2027.
The confirmed fixture headlines a demanding pool campaign that also includes clashes with England and Tonga, marking Zimbabwe’s first appearance at the global showpiece since 1991.
The fixture, announced as part of the full Men’s Rugby World Cup Australia 2027 match schedule unveiled yesterday, will mark Zimbabwe’s first appearance at the global showpiece since 1991.
It is a historic moment for Zimbabwean rugby, coming 36 years after their last outing on the sport’s biggest stage.
After the opening clash with Wales, Zimbabwe will remain in Adelaide to face England on October 8, before wrapping up their group campaign against Tonga at the North Queensland Stadium in Townsville.
Drawn into a challenging pool alongside England, Wales and Tonga, the Sables face a stern test but also a valuable opportunity to announce their return to elite international rugby.
Zimbabwe qualified for the 2027 Rugby World Cup by winning the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, edging long-time rivals Namibia 30–28 in a dramatic final in July 2025.
That victory not only secured continental supremacy but also ended a decades-long wait for World Cup qualification, reigniting belief and pride among Zimbabwean rugby supporters.
The Adelaide Oval will hold special significance for Zimbabwe, as it will host their first Rugby World Cup match since 1991, a day before reigning champions South Africa begin their title defence at the same venue.
For the Sables, it represents a symbolic and emotional re-entry into the global rugby conversation.
Bongani Ndlovu