Online Reporter
CHARLOTTE. – The Nations Cup is in full swing and there were impressive performances for the Sables from the likes of Jason Fraser, Hilton Mudariki, Edward Sigauke and Simba Mandioma in a losing cause against Tonga.
It’s a view endorsed by their veteran player Ian Prior.
The former Queensland Reds, ACT Brumbies and Western Force utility back was pivotal for the Sables’ well-rounded performance on Saturday.
At 35, Prior has found a second life with the Sables.
That exposure might not only be crucial for Zimbabwe’s future as a team but also provide a pathway to greater recognition for some of its top local players, many of whom have never had the opportunity to play professionally.
Sigauke, who plays his club rugby for Emeris in Johannesburg, scored a brilliant try and set up another, as well as carrying for more metres than any other player and the pitch and being ranked joint-first for defenders beaten (six).
“I have no idea how a guy like Edward Sigauke isn’t signed full-time somewhere,” said Prior.
“If I were a coach, I would be snapping him really quickly. I have played with some high-quality wingers who can beat four or five people in five metres, and Sigauke is at that level.
“The Nations Cup can help these guys get to bigger and better things.”
“You are always young in your soul. I still remember playing in Super Rugby and being one of the youngest guys in the team.
“I still feel the same until I start seeing the dates of birth of my current teammates, and it hits me. But I’m enjoying this set-up, and as long as I’m adding value, I want to stick around.”
He added:
“Deep down, I’ve always had a lot of belief in ourselves, with the amount of talent we’ve got, which you saw on full display.
“We were keen to test ourselves against a quality Tongan outfit, and we were able to express ourselves.”
“We are one Test Match in, but you could see the improvements since our game against South Africa ‘A’.” said the Australian-born points machine.
“If we keep testing ourselves over these two test matches and then in November, it will expose us to the right experience to build our cohesion. We have the raw talent and athleticism to play some exciting rugby.”
For Prior, the Nations Cup represents a new era for the Sables, offering the chance to compete against stronger opposition and raise their standards to new heights.
“I couldn’t speak more highly about the competition and how it is formatted.
“I’ve been involved with the Sables setup for the past three years, and this is the first time, aside from tests against the UAE and South Korea, that we’ve played against sides from outside of Africa.
“This tournament gives us more exposure to high-level rugby and puts the entire setup of Zimbabwe rugby to the challenge.” – rugbypass.com
