Tadious Manyepo-Zimpapers Sports Hub
SABLES legend Gerald Sibanda has backed the Zimbabwe national rugby team to rediscover their form when they face Uruguay in their next World Rugby Nations Cup match this Saturday.
Sibanda told Zimpapers Sports that the team has shown positive vibes, although they still have not won a match in the competition.
Zimbabwe’s performances have been a topic of debate, especially after their humbling 7-43 loss to Samoa at the DIY Kitchens Stadium in Wakefield, England, this past weekend.
But Sibanda, one of the greatest players to ever wear the green and white jersey, sees it differently.
He sees a team that is learning, growing, and getting closer.
“Yeah, it was a tough result for us, but there were a lot of positives,” said Sibanda.
“People only look at the scoreline, and they think everything was bad. But if you watched the game properly, you will see that we had good moments. We had moments where we competed. We had moments where we showed what we can do.
“Samoa are a big team. They are experienced, they are physical, they have players who play at the highest level. They put us under pressure, and they capitalised on our mistakes.
“That is what experienced teams do. But we made things difficult for ourselves at times. We were not consistent enough over the 80 minutes.
“However, I still believe in this team. I still believe we can beat Uruguay on Saturday. I have no doubt.”
The result against Samoa left Zimbabwe still searching for their first win of the World Rugby Nations Cup after losses against Tonga (36-26), the US (32-15) and Canada (21-19) during the July international window.
This defeat to Samoa was their fourth, and it left them at the bottom of their pool with two points. Sibanda, however, says the Sables should remain focused.
“Look at the games we have played. Against Tonga, we scored 26 points. Against US, we competed. Against Canada, we lost by just two points, 21-19. Those are not results of a team that is far off. Those are results of a close team,” said Sibanda.
“We have shown we can compete with quality opposition. We just need to be more consistent. We need to improve our discipline, our execution and our decision-making under pressure. We need to be more clinical and take our opportunities when they come. If we do that, we will win.”
Uruguay are next, and Sibanda believes the Sables camp have every reason to be confident of pulling off the victory.
Despite their pedigree, the South Americans have not had the best of campaigns in the World Rugby Nations Cup either.
After four games, Uruguay have one draw and three defeats.
“They (Uruguay) are also struggling.
They have not won a game either. They drew one and lost three. So, this is a game between two teams who are both hungry for a win,” said Sibanda.
“Uruguay are a quality, physical side. We know that. They are tough, they are organised, they are experienced. It will not be easy.”
Sibanda believes Zimbabwe can win and get to show the world that rugby in this country is on the rise.
“We need this win. The boys need this win. The country needs this win,” said Sibanda.
“If we beat Uruguay, it will change everything. It will give the boys confidence. It will give the fans hope. It will show that all the hard work is paying off.
“I am backing the Sables to win on Saturday. I believe in them. And I know Zimbabwe believes in them too.”
