By Zim Sport Live Writer
Former Zimbabwe rugby sevens star Fortunate Chipendu will begin his tenure as Cheetahs head coach this weekend when Zimbabwe compete in the 2026 Africa Men’s Sevens Series in Kampala, Uganda.
Chipendu, who took over from Ricky Chirengende, will lead a new-look Cheetahs side featuring a blend of experienced players and emerging talent as Zimbabwe target qualification for the World Rugby SVNS 3.
Eight teams will compete over two days on 26 and 27 September, with Zimbabwe drawn in Pool A alongside Morocco, Ghana and Nigeria. Hosts Uganda, Zambia, Tunisia and Senegal make up Pool B.
The Cheetahs open their campaign against Morocco at 08:22 CAT on Saturday, before facing Ghana at 11:06 and Nigeria at 14:40.
The tournament carries added significance, with the winners securing qualification for the 2027 World Rugby SVNS 3.
Zimbabwe finished third at last year’s Africa Sevens Series after beating Kenya 21-19 in the bronze-medal match. They had earlier lost 19-12 to eventual champions South Africa in the semi-finals.
Chipendu will now look to build on that performance with a largely revamped squad as he begins his first competitive assignment in charge.
Zimbabwe Cheetahs squad
Vuyani Dhlomo, Tapiwa Malenga, Godfrey Magaramombe, Kudakwashe Nyamakura, Dion Khumalo, Carlos Matematema, Ryan Mushumi, Trevor Gurwe, PK Manyakare, Tatenda Kambvumbi, Tavonga Ablant, Munyarardzi Ngandu.