Story by ZBC Reporter
THE Sables have qualified for the 2027 Rugby World Cup after defeating Namibia 30–28 in the final of the Rugby Africa Cup in Uganda.
In one of the most pulsating finals in African rugby history, Zimbabwe’s Sables showed nerves of steel to dramatically sweep aside their long-standing rivals, Namibia, who had not missed the Rugby World Cup since their maiden appearance in 1999.
In the process, the Sables ended a three-decade qualification drought, with their last World Cup appearance being in 1991.
In a match played at a packed Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala this Saturday, Namibia drew first blood, but the Sables clawed back, with the teams going to the break tied at 16–16.
The Sables went on to dominate the greater part of the second half and at one point led 30–21.
A late rally by Namibia ensured a nail-biting finish, but the Sables held on to win 30–28.
Captain Hilton Mudariki was on cloud nine after the team broke a generation barrier, dedicating the victory to all Zimbabweans.
“This is for the over 15 million people back home and around the world. It is a lot to take in at the moment, but I am very happy that we remained focused and treated each game like it was our last. Tonight, we celebrate bringing the trophy back home and never lose sight of a bigger calling ahead, he said.
Godfrey Muzanargwo was named the player of the match, and in an emotional speech, he gave thanks to the team as they won their 13th match unbeaten.
Ian Prior, a continental darling on the field, was named the player of the tournament.
The Sables are now looking forward to flying the national flag high at the Rugby World Cup in Australia in 2027.
