BLESSING TAKUDZWA
HARARE – Former Australian rugby star Kyle Godwin has arrived in Zimbabwe to join the national senior men’s rugby team, the Sables, in preparation for their upcoming end-of-year tour to the United Arab Emirates and South Korea. He was cleared to play for Zimbabwe by World Rugby.
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| Kyle Godwin (right) after touching down in Zimbabwe |
Godwin touched down at Robert Mugabe International Airport on Tuesday, where he was warmly welcomed by Sables management before heading straight to the training camp in Harare.
The accomplished center, who has made a name for himself as an international rugby player, is now eligible to represent Zimbabwe as the team aims to secure a spot in the next World Cup. This marks Godwin’s first visit to Zimbabwe in over twenty-five years.
Known for his skills as an inside center, Godwin is poised to form a formidable partnership with fellow Sable and former Western Force teammate Ian Prior.
Speaking to ZimSphere he said, “I’ve been in touch with Ian Prior and he had a fantastic experience with the Sables in July,” Godwin shared.
“I’m excited to be part of the positive energy surrounding Zimbabwe Rugby right now. I hope to contribute to our efforts in qualifying for the World Cup. Zimbabwe has produced some incredible rugby talent, and I look forward to seeing our players compete on the world stage.”
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Sifiso Made, chief executive officer of the Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU), confirmed Godwin's eligibility to play for Zimbabwe following approval from the World Rugby Regulations Committee.
“Kyle Godwin has always been on our radar, and I’m delighted that the requirements for his birthright transfer from Australia have been met. His inclusion in the Sables is a significant boost to our campaign for World Cup qualification,” Made said.
Godwin was an Australian professional rugby union player who made his international debut for the Wallabies against France in 2016.
He was born in Harare, Zimbabwe, but moved to Perth, Australia with his family at an early age.
He currently plays for French club Lyon OU Rugby in the Top 14 competition and has previously represented the Western Force and Brumbies in Super Rugby, where he made his debut in 2012 against the Queensland Reds in Perth. Over his career, he has played a total of 76 Super Rugby games.
Additionally, Godwin was part of the Australia under-20 team that competed in the 2012 IRB Junior World Championship in South Africa.
As the Sables gear up for their November tour, the addition of a player of Godwin's caliber is sure to energize the squad and enhance their prospects on the international stage.
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