Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
THE Zimbabwe Sables have an opportunity to end their World Rugby Nations Cup campaign with a statement victory when they take on Canada on Sunday morning.
After producing spirited performances in the narrow defeat to Tonga and the United States, the Sables will be eager to turn encouraging displays into victory against a Canadian side they meet for the first time in international rugby.
Zimbabwe head into the contest in better form, having won two of their last five internationals, while Canada are still searching for their first victory over the same period.
The two nations are also separated by just one place in the latest World Rugby rankings, with Zimbabwe in 24th and Canada in 25th.
Sables Head coach Pieter Benade has made a few changes to his starting lineup, revamping the entire front row.
Tijde Visser, Bryan Chiang and Farai Mudariki make up a completely new front row, while Tadiwa Gwashu comes in for Jason Fraser at open side flank, with Tinotenda Mavesere continuing to lead the side at blind side flank.
Tyrone Gombe takes over the number 9 jersey, while Bruce Houston moves to flyhalf, with fit-again Ian Prior settling for a place on the bench.
Kudzai Mashawi replaces Dion Khumalo at inside centre, while the back three remains the same.
Victory will provide the Sables with the perfect finish to their Nations Cup campaign and valuable confidence as Zimbabwe continues its preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
The historic first-ever meeting between Zimbabwe and Canada kicks off at 2am on Sunday at Princess Auto Stadium in Winnipeg, Canada.
