After a commanding 70-15 victory over Zambia last weekend, the Zimbabwe Sables return to Harare Sports Club this Saturday to face the Botswana Vultures in what promises to be another entertaining test match. Brimming with confidence, the Sables will look to continue their unbeaten run and extend their dominance in the 2025 season.
Ranked 26th in the World Rugby standings, Zimbabwe are overwhelming favourites going into the clash, especially with Botswana sitting at 77th. The gulf in rankings reflects the gap in experience and depth between the two sides, but the Sables are taking nothing for granted as they aim to build momentum ahead of the Rugby Africa Cup later this year.
Leading the Sables is 22-year-old captain Dion Khumalo, whose rise from the junior ranks to the national team has become a shining example of Zimbabwe’s Grassroots-To-Greatness development pathway. A product of the Under-18 and Junior Sables setups, Khumalo has flourished in the senior side and is fast establishing himself as a key figure in Zimbabwean rugby.
“Playing at home is always exciting — it truly feels like we have a 16th player on the field, and we hope the HSC fans show up as they always do for us,” said Khumalo, urging fans to come out in numbers.
Scrumhalf Tyrone Gombe will earn his first start this Saturday after making an impressive impact off the bench against Zambia. His promotion into the starting XV is a testament to his strong performances in training and composure under pressure.
However, the Sables will be without loose forward Tadius “Boxer” Dzandiwandira, who sustained a concussion last weekend and will be unavailable for selection.
Botswana, coached by Andrew Paxinos, has announced a 24-man squad for the match. Paxinos acknowledged the challenge ahead, with Zimbabwe presenting one of the toughest tests his team has faced.
The stage is set for another thrilling encounter at Harare Sports Club, as the Sables aim to maintain their winning streak and continue their rise in African rugby.
3 Comments
Sables win
I think so as well, we should win very comfortably
I would also agree. Especially after the Sables’ last performance against Zambia, it’s unlikely Botswana will have a chance