By Daniel Nhakaniso
Zimbabwe international winger Edward Sigauke has been likened to South African star Cheslin Kolbe by Harlequins teammate Cadan Murley, who believes the 22-year-old has the qualities to make a big impact at the English Premiership club.
Murley, who has been named Harlequins’ on-field captain for the 2026/27 season, singled out Sigauke’s footwork and pace when speaking to Planet Rugby.
“His footwork is up there with some of the best I’ve seen,” Murley told Planet Rugby.
“Obviously, I’ve played against Cheslin Kolbe, and he had some pretty good footwork to step me on the inside, but yeah, I’d liken his footwork to that. But he’s also got out and out raw pace as well. So yeah, he’s definitely one to watch.”
Murley also praised Sigauke’s physical attributes, saying the Zimbabwean’s explosiveness had stood out during training.
“He is electric. His footwork, his power. We do jumps in the gym, and he’s doing single-leg jumps, the height of most people’s double-leg jump,” he said.
Sigauke joined Harlequins ahead of the 2026/27 season after establishing himself with Zimbabwe, winning 12 caps and scoring eight tries since making his international debut in 2024.
The winger was also part of the Zimbabwe side that won consecutive Africa Cup titles, securing qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Murley believes Sigauke’s ability extends beyond his physical attributes, describing him as a player who is eager to learn and capable of developing further in the professional environment.
“He is definitely a star of the future,” Murley said. “Very quiet, goes under the radar, but is so willing to learn. Will ask questions all the time. He’s definitely one to watch, a star of the future.”
Sigauke has already made an impression since arriving at The Stoop, having scored two tries on his Harlequins debut in the club’s 33-19 pre-season victory over Edinburgh.
Harlequins head coach Jason Gilmore previously highlighted the Zimbabwean’s “tremendous speed and footwork” when announcing his signing, saying the club was excited about his potential.
The comparison with Kolbe, one of South Africa’s leading backs and a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, provides another indication of the expectations surrounding Sigauke as he begins his first season in the Premiership.