By Zim Sport Live Writer
Newly signed Doncaster Knights back Matt McNab has expressed his joy at being recalled to the Zimbabwe national rugby team after a three-year absence, as the Sables prepare for the upcoming Rugby Africa Cup in Uganda.
The 26-year-old, who recently completed a two-year stint with the Cornish Pirates in the English Championship, joins a reinvigorated Zimbabwe squad under head coach Piet Benade, with the tournament also serving as a pathway to 2027 Rugby World Cup qualification.
“It’s an amazing feeling being called back up to the national side,” McNab said in an exclusive interview with Zim Sport Live.
“It’s been a long three years since I was last involved. I suppose with all my club commitments and stuff like that over the last three years, I haven’t really had much thought around going back or being able to contribute to the Zimbabwe national side.”
McNab credits his time in the UK for his development as a player, highlighting the professionalism and high standards at his former club.
“Things have been going really well for me here in the UK, at my previous club Cornish Pirates where I was for two years,” he said.
“An unbelievable setup, fully professional, so I feel I’ve gained a lot of experience and I feel I have grown so much as a player. I’m obviously very excited about my new move to the Doncaster Knights, who are also a fully professional side, and I’m looking forward to contributing with them.”
The versatile backline player, who has previously featured prominently for the Sables, sees the Africa Cup as both a personal and collective opportunity.
“It’s a massive honour to be called up to the Sables squad for the Africa Cup and qualifiers for the World Cup,” McNab said. “I’m really proud of representing my country and excited to join up with the rest of the squad on Sunday. I’ll put my best foot forward for the team really. I want to be able to play my best obviously, but also share a lot of knowledge I’ve learnt over these last three years that I’ve not been with the squad. I want to be able to help nurture the younger players that are coming through.”
With the Sables aiming for a strong showing in Uganda, McNab is optimistic about the team’s prospects.
“I really feel that this squad that Piet Benade has put together is a really promising squad,” he said.
Zimbabwe open their Rugby Africa Cup campaign with high hopes of not only qualifying for the semi-finals but also laying the foundation for future World Cup qualification. McNab’s experience and renewed national commitment could be key as the Sables aim to return to the global stage.