Zimbabwe Sables climb World Rugby rankings

BLESSING TAKUDZWA

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Sables, the nation’s rugby team, have made significant strides in the latest World Rugby Rankings, climbing to the 27th position. They now have a rating of 57,16 points surging from 56,03.

This remarkable achievement marks a historic moment for Zimbabwean rugby and solidifies the team’s upward trajectory.

The Sables’ recent success, including a flawless 7-0 record in test matches, has brought them closer to their regional rivals, Namibia. While Zimbabwe has not surpassed Namibia in the rankings, they have closed the gap and now sit just one positive ranking behind them.

A decisive 32-10 victory over Namibia in the Africa Cup semi-final was a pivotal moment in their journey.

“While we don’t place excessive importance on rankings, it’s undeniable that climbing the ladder provides us with valuable opportunities to face tougher opponents,” said Sables coach Pieter Benade.

“The climb in rankings is an indication that we are trending in the right direction, and hopefully, we can start organising test matches and competing with the teams between 20 and 25.”

“Our primary focus remains on achieving our long-term goal of qualifying for the Rugby World Cup, but it needs to be a result of a process where we are doing things correctly both on and off the field,” Benade added.

As the Sables return from a triumphant Middle East and Asia Tour, they are poised to continue their upward momentum and build on their recent successes.

Zimbabwe Rugby Union President Losson Mtongwiza echoed the team’s sentiments.

“As a Union, we would always want to play at the highest level. Resources permitting, we would like to play with teams ranked above us as often as we can,” said Mtongwiza.

“The goal is to ensure, by all means, that we secure World Cup status and that our local systems enjoy the trickle-down benefits accrued from that level.”

With their sights firmly set on consistent progress, the Zimbabwe Sables aim to inspire and unite the nation through their performance on the international stage.