ZRU ready for Sevens tournament

Takudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter

ZIMBABWE Rugby Union president Aaron Jani says they feel privileged to be hosting the Paramount Garments 2023 Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens tournament which begins tomorrow at Harare Sports Club.

Jani, who is also the Rugby Africa treasurer, said they were happy and ready to host the prestigious tournament, which will double as the qualifiers for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Speaking at a press conference at the Harare Sports Club yesterday, Jani said the stage is now set for the successful hosting of the event.

“We are happy that we have the privilege to host the Paramount Garments 2023 Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens tournament which will double as the qualifiers for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

“Most of the participating teams are already here and we are expecting the rest today (yesterday) to check in their hotels,” said Jani.

After weeks of preparations, Zimbabwe Rugby Union on Tuesday announced a 12-member squad led by Godfrey Magaramombe.

The squad is a blend of experienced players such as Hilton Mudariki who is the vice-captain, Takudzwa Kumadiro and France-based Riaan O’Neil with young bloods like Under-20 rugby sensation Shadreck Mandaza.

Zimbabwe will host some of the top countries on the continent that include Algeria, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Madagascar, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Tunisia, Uganda and Zambia.

The winners will qualify for the 2024 Olympics in Paris, and the second and third placed teams will get another chance in the 2024 Final Olympic Qualification Tournament featuring the runners-up from across the continents. In addition, the top two teams will qualify for the 2024 Challenger Series. The continental rugby tournament will be broadcast exclusively on ZTN Prime, DStv channel 294.