Seven years later: International rugby returns to Hartsfield Rugby Grounds

SEVEN years is a long time in sport, long enough for a generation to rise, for players to build careers, and for a once-vibrant venue to fall quiet.

However, this weekend that silence will finally be broken as international rugby makes its long-awaited return to the home of the game, Hartsfield Rugby Grounds in Bulawayo, when the Zimbabwe senior men’s national team, the Sables, host neighbours Zambia in the second instalment of the Battle of the Zambezi.

For years, the historic Bulawayo ground has stood as a reminder of what once was.

Now, Zimbabwe’s most cherished rugby theatre is set to come alive once more.

The Sables’ last international fixture at Hartsfield was in 2019 when they faced Kenya in a Victoria Cup match.
With a few days left to go before the Sables take centre stage at the iconic venue once again, Bulawayo Metropolitan Rugby Football Board (BMRFB) chairperson Carrington Busili said this is a moment of pride for the province, which will once again pit Bulawayo as a major sporting hub.

“To host an international rugby match once again is both a moment of pride and quiet vindication for the Bulawayo Metropolitan Province. It signals our return to the international sporting calendar and reaffirms Bulawayo’s standing as a city with the infrastructure, institutional maturity, and sporting culture to host events of continental significance. After a prolonged absence, this match is not merely a fixture; it is a statement that Bulawayo remains a serious sporting city and a capable partner in national development through sport,” Busili told Zimpapers Sports Hub.

He said Saturday’s game comes at a crucial period for the province.

“This moment arrives at a critical juncture for rugby in the region, when the sport is recalibrating and seeking renewed relevance among young people and communities. Hosting an international test match injects confidence into administrators, players and sponsors alike.

“It demonstrates that high-level rugby is attainable locally. At a time when sport must compete for attention and resources, this event provides a powerful focal point around which rugby in the region can reorganise and grow,” he said.

As the build up continues, significant work has gone into preparing Hartsfield to meet international expectations and Busili said the upgrades are not only for Saturday’s game but for the future.

“This has included improvements to the playing surface, upgrades to changing facilities, medical and player welfare provisions, and enhancements to spectator areas. Particular attention has been paid to safety, pitch quality and operational readiness. These upgrades are not once-off reactions; they are part of a broader vision to ensure that

Hartsfield remains a viable and competitive venue for future national and international events,” said Busili.
He added that Saturday’s game will also have a significant impact on grassroots rugby. Busili said when young players watch a national team competing on their home soil, the dream becomes tangible and this match creates visibility for the sport, stimulates interest at school and community level, and strengthens pathways from grassroots to elite rugby.

The BMRFB boss said it also opens opportunities for clinics, talent identification, mentorship, and partnerships with schools and clubs. In essence, it tells young players: “excellence can start here, and the road to national colours can run through Bulawayo.”

Busili called on all sport loving people to come out in their numbers and send a message that Bulawayo does celebrate sport.

“Crowd support is absolutely central to the success of this occasion. An international match derives its true energy from the stands, from the colour, voice, and passion of the people. A full and vibrant Hartsfield sends a powerful message to players, officials, and the wider rugby world that Bulawayo embraces and celebrates sport.

“My message to supporters is simple: come out in numbers, bring your pride, and be part of history. This is not just a rugby match; it is a collective moment for the province, and your presence will help make it unforgettable,” said Busili.

Saturday’s game is scheduled to start at 3:30pm and fans have been encouraged to get their match tickets early.
The Sables won the first match against Zambia at Harare Sports Club last Saturday 43-31 and will be looking to make it a double this Saturday in Bulawayo.