THE Zimbabwe Sables will face their toughest test yet as they clash with perennial rivals Namibia in the final of the Rugby Africa Cup with a coveted spot at the Men’s Rugby World Cup Australia 2027 on the line at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Uganda this morning.
For Zimbabwe, it is a dream that has eluded them since 1991 and this match represents the culmination of years of dedication and a chance to make history.
Namibia, a consistent presence at the World Cup since 1999, stands as the final hurdle.
The entire nation of Zimbabwe holds its breath, ready to celebrate what would be a monumental achievement.
“Our captain’s run was good. I think the whole week has been really good. We have just really focused on refreshing ourselves, our minds, our bodies, just making sure that we are in the right headspace going into tomorrow,” said Sables captain Hilton Mudariki, exuding confidence ahead of the crucial encounter.
“We know that they are a quality team and they have shown that over the years. But for us, we have always said, since we got to the start of this tournament, that we just wanted to focus on ourselves, take each game as a final. We have definitely done that.”
Mudariki also acknowledged the overwhelming support from fans, both at home and abroad.
“The fans have been great. We are nothing without them. Their support, the way that they just get behind us is truly amazing. We can feel them, even though we’re so far away,” he said.
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“Weve seen the videos, we have seen watch parties being hosted, the messages that have come through. Your support means everything to us. And as I said, we’re nothing without you. And we’ll definitely want to repay the faith that you’ve shown in us tomorrow (today).”
Sables coach Pieter Benade echoed the sentiment of the team’s readiness while acknowledging the formidable challenge Namibia presents.
“They are the current, let’s say, holders of going to World Cup. They have not lost a qualifying tournament for over 30 years. So it’s up to us to go and take something away from somebody and to do that, we need to do something special,” the coach said.
“I think the main thing was restoring national pride, actually. So making people proud of their rugby team is a goal of every coach. And I think everybody strives to do that.
“The boys, they want our citizens to be proud of us. And so they understand that there is a bigger thing to play for than just themselves.
“We are very proud of the effort and the achievements of the squad up to this point, reaching a second consecutive final and earning a shot at qualification takes a lot of doing. So we’ve done that part and now there’s one more step to take.”
The team’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, with the Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture ministry, along with key sponsors like Nedbank, throwing their full weight behind the Sables.
Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture permanent secretary Nicholas Moyo expressed strong optimism.
“Rugby stands out tall and as a country, we are in the peak of things, at the edge of celebrating one of the country’s greatest feats, when the Sables will qualify for World Cup rugby,” he said.
Nedbank Zimbabwe executive head of treasury, marketing and corporate affairs Latifa Kassim reaffirmed their unwavering commitment, saying: “We support them, we are fully behind them.”
As the Sables prepare to take to the field this morning, the weight of a nation’s hopes rests on their shoulders.
A victory would not only secure their place at Rugby World Cup 2027, but also mark a triumphant return to the global stage after more than three decades.
