Zimbabwe’s national rugby team, the Sables, are primed to extend their dominance this Saturday when they face Botswana’s Vultures at Harare Sports Club.
Under the guidance of Pieter Benade the sables are riding high on a wave of commanding performances and a clear intent to assert their regional supremacy.
Fresh from a 70-15 demolition of Zambia last weekend, the Sables have sent a resounding message to their African rivals.
With regular captain Hilton Mudariki rested strategically on the bench, leadership duties fall to flanker Dion Khumalo, a product of Zimbabwe’s ‘Grassroots to Greatness’ development pathway.
Khumalo, who rose through the national U18 and U20 ranks, embodies the success of the country’s long-term investment in junior rugby structures.
Speaking ahead of the match, Khumalo embraced the responsibility but stressed the collective strength within the squad.
“It’s an honour to lead, but this team doesn’t rely on one person,” he said.
“We have leaders all over the park, Hilton, Aiden, Kudzai and we’re all aligned. We’re prepared, we’re hungry, and we know what’s expected.”
The Sables’ squad showcases a blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent, with 20-year-old scrum-half Tyrone Gombe earning his first start after an impressive debut off the bench against Zambia.
The Junior Sables’ recent 38-12 demolition of South Africa’s Sharks Academy U20 side further reinforces the depth of Zimbabwe’s talent pipeline.
Botswana’s Vultures, coached by former Zimbabwean rugby figure Andrew Paxinos, arrive as clear underdogs. Limited preparation time and a lack of exposure to high-intensity test rugby leave them vulnerable against a Sables side brimming with confidence.
Paxinos acknowledged the challenge but remained optimistic.
“We haven’t had much time together, but we’ll give everything,” he said.
“Zimbabwe’s level is a step up, and this is where we learn, through battle.”
The Vultures, however, are flying into a storm. The Sables are battle-hardened, backed by a vocal home crowd, and determined to make Harare Sports Club an impenetrable fortress.
With their forwards dominating collisions and their backline firing on all cylinders, another commanding performance seems inevitable.
Kickoff is 3PM.
