Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
THE Zimbabwe Sables will be aiming to end their World Rugby Nations Cup campaign on a winning note when they take on Canada in the early hours of Sunday.
After spirited performances in narrow defeats to Tonga and the United States, Zimbabwe will be looking to turn encouraging displays into victory against a Canadian side they will face for the first time in an international match.
The Sables head into the encounter in stronger recent form, having won two of their last five internationals, while Canada are still searching for their first victory over the same period.
The teams are also closely matched in the latest World Rugby rankings, with Zimbabwe ranked 24th and Canada 25th.
Head coach Pieter Benade has made several changes to his starting side, including a completely new front row of Tijde Visser, Bryan Chiang and Farai Mudariki.
Tadiwa Gwashu replaces Jason Fraser at openside flank, while Tinotenda Mavesere retains the blindside flank position.
In the backline, Tyrone Gombe starts at scrum-half, with Bruce Houston shifting to fly-half. Fit-again Ian Prior returns to the match-day squad on the bench.
Kudzai Mashawi comes in for Dion Khumalo at inside centre, while the back three remains unchanged.
Victory would give the Sables a confidence boost as they continue preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
The historic first meeting between Zimbabwe and Canada kicks off at 2am on Sunday at Princess Auto Stadium in Winnipeg, Canada.
