Former Wallabies Player, Kyle Godwin Joins Zimbabwe Sables Ahead of Asia Tour
By Delicious Mathuthu
Harare, Zimbabwe – Former Australian national rugby team star, Kyle Godwin, arrived in Zimbabwe yesterday (Tuesday 22 October 2024) to join the National Senior Men’s Rugby team, the Sables, as they prepare for the upcoming tour of United Arab Emirates and South Korea.
Godwin arrived at the Robert Mugabe International Airport yesterday and was received by Sables management led by Team Manager Takunda Chifokoyo, who took him straight to join the squad in camp.
This is Godwin’s first visit to Zimbabwe in over twenty-five years, Zimbabwe Rugby Union said, as he seeks to assist the Sables qualify for the next Rugby World Cup.
“I am just excited to get back, I have memories of my old house as a seven year old, eight year old and a bit about my old school, but to be honest it’s like coming to a new country again.
“So I am looking forward to getting back, getting in touch. I am super excited,” Godwin said just after arrival at the airport.
“There is a lot of energy about Zimbabwe rugby at the moment and I want to be a part of that, and hopefully be a part of it and push for qualifications for the next World Cup.
“Zimbabwe is producing really quality rugby players and we are going to see some of them on the world stage. So I want to make sure I do everything I can to help Zimbabwe to that place,” he said.
Godwin made a name for himself internationally as an Australian national team rugby player but is now eligible to represent Zimbabwe after being cleared by the International Rugby Regularions Committee.
The Sables eyeing to secure a spot in the next World Cup.
Playing 1st center, Godwin is expected to form a strong partnership with fellow former Western Force teammate, Ian Prior who is part of the named Sables squard.
“I’ve been in touch with Ian Prior and he had a fantastic experience with the Sables in July,” Godwin said.
Zimbabwe Rugby Union Chief Executive Officer, Sifiso Made, confirmed that the World Rugby Regulations Committee approved Godwin’s elegibility to play for Zimbabwe.
“Kyle Godwin has always been on our radar, and I’m delighted that the requirements for his birthright transfer from Australia have been met.
“His inclusion in the Sables is a significant boost to our campaign for World Cup qualification,” he said.
Godwin first appeared for Australia as part of the under-20 team in 2012 at the International Rugby Board Junior World Championship in South Africa.
He then made his international debut for the Wallabies in 2016 against France, and currently plays for French club Lyon OU Rugby.
He also previously represented the Western Force and Brumbies in Super Rugby, where he made his first appearance for the league in 2012 against the Queensland Reds in Perth.
Godwin boasts over 76 Super Rugby games.
Takunda Chifokoyo and Kyle Godwin
