By Daniel Nhakaniso
Zimbabwe have significantly strengthened their squad for the inaugural World Rugby Nations Cup by recalling several experienced internationals while rewarding a crop of exciting young players as the Sables continue building towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
The 36-man travelling squad announced on Monday retains the nucleus of the side that secured Zimbabwe’s historic Rugby Africa Cup triumph and qualification for the Rugby World Cup last year, but has been further reinforced with the return of seasoned campaigners and the introduction of promising new talent.
Among the biggest boosts is the return of veteran flyhalf Ian Prior, whose experience and game management will be invaluable after he missed the recent friendly against South Africa A.
Gallagher Premiership winner Cleopas Kundiona also rejoins the squad after helping Northampton Saints lift the English title in his debut season and is expected to strengthen Zimbabwe’s scrum at tighthead prop.
The Sables have also been boosted by the return of France-based prop Farai Mudariki, who recently ended an eight-year international absence. The experienced tighthead adds further quality and depth to Zimbabwe’s front row.
The versatile Godfrey Muzanargwo is back after missing the South Africa A fixture, adding another powerful option capable of playing both lock and loose forward, while experienced back-rower Jason Fraser returns to provide leadership after spending almost a decade in France’s Pro D2 with Nevers.
The Sables have also injected youthful energy into the squad.
Eighteen-year-old scrumhalf Tyrone Gombe receives his first senior call-up after impressing in South Africa. The Cape Town-based youngster, who attended Wynberg Boys’ High School under Sables coach Piet Benade, is regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s brightest prospects.
Young hooker Bryan Chiang also earns his place after consistently featuring in the wider training squad and is viewed as a player the national team can build around for years to come.
The backline is further strengthened by the return of Matt McNab, who recently joined English Championship club Coventry Rugby following a successful spell with Doncaster Knights, bringing pace, power and a different attacking dimension out wide.
Zimbabwe’s growing depth is further highlighted by the travelling reserves, with USA collegiate standout Takudzwa Musinginwini, highly-rated local flyhalf Tatenda Kamubvumbi and New Zealand-raised playmaker Jason Robertson all on standby.
With increased competition for places across the squad, the Sables head to North America confident they can challenge themselves against higher-ranked opponents when they take on Tonga, hosts USA and Canada in July.
The tournament is expected to provide the ideal platform for Zimbabwe to test the depth they have built since qualifying for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, while continuing to integrate the next generation of Sables into the international environment.