By Zim Sport Live Writer
Title-chasing Major League Rugby (MLR) side Houston Sabercats have announced the return of highly rated Zimbabwean back row forward Tinashe Muchena as they look to strengthen their side following a strong start to the new season.
Houston Sabercats are currently second on the MLR standings behind leaders the San Diego Legion after winning three of their opening four matches.
Muchena, who is eligible to represent both Zimbabwe and the US in international rugby, returns to Houston after a successful stint with Chicago Hounds following his move two years ago.
Muchena initially signed with the Houston SaberCats during the 2022 season but only played with the team’s academy team, Rugby HTX, prompting his move to Chicago where he featured prominently in the MLR.
The Harare-born star was the first Zimbabwean ever selected in the MLR Collegiate draft.
He attended St. George’s College in Harare, where he played on the rugby team’s first XV and was the schools headboy in his final year..
He also played for the Zimbabwean club Old Hararians, where his father William continued to play for the team into his 50s.
He played age-grade rugby for Zimbabwe, playing for the Sables U20s in 2017.
Tinashe received a rugby scholarship to Lindenwood-Belleville, before transferring to Lindenwood University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interactive Media and Web Design in 2021.
During his time at Lindenwood University, Muchena excelled on the rugby field and was the Most Valuable Forward in the Mid-South Conference, First Team All-Conference, a D1A National Champion, and a Collegiate All-American. In 2021 he was nominated for the Rudy Scholz Award.