Sables and Namibia renew rivalry at the National Sports Stadium

Zimbabwe’s Sables return to home soil this Saturday to face Namibia at the National Sports Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm. The match offers Zimbabwe an opportunity to end their recent losing streak, while Namibia will be determined to spoil the occasion and settle old scores.

The Sables have won their last three meetings against Namibia, with the most memorable being their dramatic 30-28 victory in the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup final. That result secured Zimbabwe’s qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, ending a 36-year wait to return to the tournament.

However, Zimbabwe head into Saturday’s encounter following four consecutive Test defeats against South Africa A, Tonga, the United States and Canada. A victory over their regional rivals would provide a timely confidence boost as the Sables prepare for the next round of the Nations Cup in November, where they will face Samoa, Chile and Uruguay.

Namibia, meanwhile, will be eager to avenge their recent losses and remind Zimbabwe that they remain a formidable force in African rugby. With the Welwitschias looking to end the Sables’ winning run, the visitors will be determined to leave Harare with a statement victory.

The match also marks the return of international rugby to the National Sports Stadium after 9 years, giving Zimbabwean supporters a rare opportunity to watch their national team at the iconic venue.

With pride, rivalry and preparations for the 2027 World Cup at stake, Saturday promises an entertaining contest. The Sables will be looking to rediscover their winning touch, while Namibia will be hoping to play the role of party spoilers.

What better way to spend a Saturday than getting behind the Sables?