THE Zimbabwe Sables are set to kick off their 2027 Rugby World Cup qualification journey with a crucial Rugby Africa Cup quarter-final clash against Morocco at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala this morning.
As defending champions, the Sables enter the tournament with high expectations and the weight of a 34-year World Cup wait on their shoulders, having last featured on the global stage in 1993.
Coach Piet Benade expressed confidence in his squad.
"The boys seem ready; they are in a good space. It's just about turning up at 10 O'clock tomorrow (today)."
He acknowledged the challenge posed by Morocco, which had a successful season last year.
" I think the Moroccans are going to be good; they had a very successful season last year, so it's going to be up to us to match their passion and to be super accurate. We know that a lot of the boys are French-based, so that comes with a lot of physicality and good set pieces. There is also a lot of emotion we have to deal with, saying that we know what's on the line and what is at stake," he said.
Captain Hilton Mudariki echoed the coach's sentiments, noting the team's positive mood after a run on the game-day pitch.
"The guys are in great spirits. I feel like they had a good training run, and they can't wait for tomorrow. Mentally, we are prepared; we have done all the work because this journey started last year. Our preparations have gone well."
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The Sables, sponsored by Nedbank Zimbabwe and powered by Alliance Health Zimbabwe, have undergone meticulous preparation since their 2024 triumph in Kampala, including an impressive tour of the Middle East and Asia at the close of last year, securing wins against the UAE and South Korea.
The formidable squad, announced by Benade, retains the core of their championship-winning team and sees the return of influential players such as speedster Matthew McNab, gritty Jason Fraser, kicking stalwart Lenience Tambwera and Australia-based halfback Ian Prior.
This eight-nation tournament holds immense significance, as the winner secures the sole automatic qualification ticket to the Men’s Rugby World Cup Australia 2027.
While the runner-up will have a lifeline through a global repechage tournament, the Sables are unequivocally focused on securing that direct qualification.
Should Zimbabwe overcome Morocco, they will face the winner of the quarterfinal between hosts Uganda and Kenya in the semifinals on July 13.
The stage is set for a thrilling tournament, with the Sables determined to write a new chapter in their rugby history.
Zimbabwe Sables Squad for Rugby Africa Cup 2025
Forwards: Aiden Burnett, Bryan Chiang, Brian Makamure, Zvikomborero Chimoto, Victor Mupunga, Tyran Fagan, Jason Fraser, Bornwell Gwinji, Tadiwanashe Gwashu, Cleopas Kundiona, Liam Larkan, Simba Mandioma, Tino Mavesere, Godfrey Muzanargwo, Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa, Simbarashe Siraha, Dylan Utete, Brian Nyaude.
Backs: Hilton Mudariki (captain), Trevor Gurwe, Keegan Joubert, Dion Khumalo, Tapiwa Mafura, Matt McNab, Kudzai Mashawi, Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, Taku Musingwini, Ed Sigauke, Ian Prior, Lenience Tambwera, Tyrone Gombe.
