Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports editor
FORMER Sharks and Stormers prop Michael Kumbirai is set to make his long-awaited debut for the Zimbabwe Sables after being named in the team to face neighbours Zambia in the battle of Zambezi set for Harare Sports Club on April 25 this year.
Kumbirai is in line to finally earn his first cap after injury setbacks delayed his international bow since declaring interest to play for Zimbabwe in 2023, bringing experience and stability to the front row.
The experienced front rower will start at tight head prop after being named in the starting line-up announced by coach Pieter Benade on April 24 this year.
Captain Hilton Mudariki leads a balanced squad that blends experienced campaigners with emerging local talent.
Winger Tapiwa Mafura returns to strengthen the backline after his recent departure from South African side Lions.
Mutare-born flank Dave Ewers could also feature, adding physicality and top-level experience from his time in England and South Africa.
Despite missing some foreign-based players due to club commitments, the Sables are expected to assemble a full-strength squad later in the season.
The Zambia series kickstarts what promises to be a crucial season for the Sables.
Zimbabwe will face South Africa’s ‘A’ side on June 20 in Gqeberha before heading to the United States for the World Rugby Nations Cup in July.
The Nations Cup is a newly introduced second-tier international competition that offers Zimbabwe valuable game time ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
