By Delicious Mathuthu
Harare – The Zimbabwe national rugby team, the Sables, will this November embark on an international tour of Dubai and South Korea in preparation of up-coming World Cup qualifiers.
The team will first travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE)’s Dubai for a friendly match against the Emirates’ national team on the 5th of November 2024, at the Sevens Stadium.
Then travel to South Korea for an alignment camp, where they will play two matches on the 7th and 15th of November.
The Sables, who are the reigning Africa Rugby Cup Champions, seek to have a feel of international opposition away from the continent.
Sables Coach, Pieter Benade, said the tour will gain players the needed international match experience.
“We are excited to test ourselves against international opposition and gain valuable match experience.
“These tours will help us prepare for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers and showcase our talent on the global stage,” he said.
A provisional squad has been announced as the team has been playing Zimbabwe provincial sides, with the final touring squad to be announced as dates get closer.
Zimbabwe Rugby Union President, Losson Mtongwiza, said the tour will elevate the rugby national team.
“It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players and coaching staff as we are confident that the Sables will continue to elevate the profile of rugby in Zimbabwe,” he said.
In preparation for the tour, the Sables will also play a series of matches against junior Sables and the Zimbabwe Under-20 squad.
