Story by Lawrence Trusida , Sports Editor
ZIMBABWE’S preparations for the inaugural World Rugby Nations Cup have received a significant boost following the inclusion of Stormers lock Gary Porter in the Sables training squad ahead of Saturday’s international fixture against South Africa A.
The uncapped second-row forward has been named in Zimbabwe’s extended squad for the match at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, where the Sables will continue building towards next year’s Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Porter, 29, qualifies to represent Zimbabwe and has made himself available for national team selection, providing additional depth and experience to the Sables’ forward pack.
Standing at two metres tall and weighing 115 kilogrammes, the former Western Province lock is expected to bring physicality, lineout expertise and added strength to Zimbabwe’s set-piece play.
The towering forward revealed that Sables head coach Pieter Benade played a key role in convincing him to commit to the Zimbabwean cause.
His arrival comes at an important time for the Sables as they prepare for a challenging international programme that includes the World Rugby Nations Cup in July.
Porter believes Zimbabwe has the quality to compete strongly against South Africa A and is optimistic about the team’s prospects at the Nations Cup.
Zimbabwe is set to face formidable opposition in the tournament, including Tonga national rugby union team, United States national rugby union team and Canada national rugby union team.
The inclusion of Porter underlines Zimbabwe’s determination to strengthen its squad as the Sables continue preparations for major international competitions and their return to the Rugby World Cup stage.
