Sables open season with gritty win over Zambia

Zimbabwe’s Sables returned to international action with a hard-fought 43-31 win over Zambia at Harare Sports Club, but the performance showed there is still work to be done as they build momentum for the season ahead.

After nearly nine months without a Test match, the Sables looked slightly off rhythm at times, with signs of rust evident despite the positive result. Head coach Piet Benade used the fixture as an opportunity to experiment, handing debuts to five players while testing new combinations within the squad.

One of the standout performers was debutant flyhalf David Hayes, who made an immediate impact with his tactical kicking and control of territory. Having only recently joined the camp, his composure and game management added a new dimension to Zimbabwe’s play and highlighted growing depth in a key position.

Zimbabwe’s tries came from a spread of contributors, including Tadiwanashe Gwashu, Vuyani Dhlomo, Aiden Burnett, Liam Larkin, Tapiwa Mafura, and a brace from Godfrey Magaramombe, underlining the team’s attacking potential.

Zambia, however, proved no easy opponent. They matched Zimbabwe’s physicality for long periods and kept themselves in the contest with a determined display, crossing the line multiple times and capitalising on defensive lapses.

Despite the inconsistencies, the result marked an important step for the Sables. It ended a long wait for international rugby and provided a valuable platform to assess squad depth ahead of tougher challenges to come.

With another clash against Zambia on Saturday at Hartsfield, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe will be aiming for a more polished performance as they continue fine-tuning their game.