By Zim Sport Live Writer
Zimbabwe head coach Pieter Benade has made four changes to the Sables’ starting lineup for Saturday’s historic maiden Test against South Korea in Incheon.
Former Australia international Kyle Goodwin makes his first start for Zimbabwe since recently switching international allegiance.
The 32-year-old vastly-experienced outside centre made his debut from the bench during the Sables’ thumping 66-22 win over the United Arab Emirates in Dubai on November 5.
Goodwin will partner co-vice captain Kudzai Mashawi in a new look midfield pairing while Brandon Mudzekenyedzi shuffles to right wing ahead of Trevor Gurwe, who will start from the bench.
In the forwards co-vice-captain Aiden Burnett, who returns to the number eight jersey, where he was outstanding for Zimbabwe at the Africa Cup in Uganda in July, starting all three matches at number 8 and emerging man-of-the-match in the final against Algeria.
Sharks star Tino Mavesere, who started at number eight against UAE returns to his regular position at flank.
Upfront, props Jovan Bekker and Munashe Mhere who both made their international debuts for Zimbabwe against UAE, will start from the bench after making way for Tyran Fagan and Bornwell Gwinji.
The duo will partner experienced hooker Simba Mandioma, who was certified fit to start after an injury scare during the week.
Mandioma and captain Hilton Midariki will both be making their 50th appearance for the Sables during the match against South Korea.
ZIMBABWE SQUAD
Starting: 15. Tadius Hwata 14. Brandon Mudzekenyedzi 13. Kyle Goodwin 12. Kudzai Mashawi (vice-captain) 11. Edward Sigauke 10. Ian Prior 9. Hilton Mudariki (captain) 8. Aiden Burnett, 7. Tino Mavesere 6. Dylan Utete 5. Simba Siraha 4. Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa 3. Bornwell Gwinji 2. Simba Mandioma 1. Tyran Fagan.
Replacements: 16. Bryan Chiang, 17. Jovan Bekker, 18. Munashe Mhere, 19. David Makamba, 20. Kelvin Kanenungo, 21. Keegan Joubert, 22. Dion Khumalo, 23. Trevor Gurwe