By Kuchineyi Lewis
Harare, Zimbabwe – 18 June 2025 — “This tournament is everything—it’s our chance to earn a spot in the Challenger Series and return to consistent international competition,” declared Zimbabwe Sevens Head Coach Ricky Paul Chirengende as the Zambezi Cheetahs jetted off to Mauritius Wednesday morning for the 2025 Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens Cup.
The high-stakes tournament, slated for 21st to 22nd June in Port Louis, is not just about continental bragging rights but is Zimbabwe’s potential gateway back into the global rugby arena.
Zimbabwe has been drawn into a tricky Pool C alongside hosts Mauritius, Tunisia, and Madagascar. With only the top two in each group progressing to the knockout stages making every match critical.
Chirengende spoke confidently about his team’s prospects as they departed from Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, stating:
“It has been a long time since we assembled a squad as good as this one. I told the boys in our final session that what we may have lacked in prep time, we’ve made up for in pure quality.
“We’re heading out to compete for the big prize. This is a heavy pool with tough teams, but we’re ready,” he said.
Team captain Tapiwa Malenga, a seasoned campaigner in both 7s and 15s rugby, emphasized the hunger and unity within the squad:
“This is a confident group of guys, and we’re all locked in on the mission. The depth in this squad allows us to rotate and stay fresh.
“Everyone knows what’s at stake, it’s about earning our place back on the international scene, ” Malenga reiterated.
The 12-man squad blends experience with fresh energy, including a number of standout performers from Zimbabwe’s 15s national side, The Sables.
Chirengende’s selection highlights form and versatility, with players having impressed during both domestic tournaments and regional warm-up fixtures.
While Pool C doesn’t feature continental heavyweights like South Africa or Uganda, it’s still packed with danger.
The hosts, Mauritius, will have the crowd behind them, and both Tunisia and Madagascar are known for their pace and flair.
Zimbabwe last lifted the Africa Sevens crown in 2012, and the current group is determined to rewrite history. A top finish in Mauritius would not only secure a berth in the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series, but also edge Zimbabwe closer to Olympic qualification pathways.
The Cheetahs are scheduled to face:
• Tunisia – Morning (21 June)
• Mauritius – Midday (21 June)
• Madagascar – Afternoon (21 June)
Team Manager Tafadzwa Mhende was upbeat ahead of the trip:
“This is a mentally tough group. The union, our partners, and sponsors have been supportive, and now it’s time for the boys to deliver. We believe this squad will represent Zimbabwe with pride.”
Zimbabwe Cheetahs – 2025 Traveling Squad
- Vuyani Dhlomo
- Munashe Dukuswa
- Brandon Mudzekenyedzi
- Edward Sigauke
- Godfrey Magaramombe
- Ryan Musumhi
- Tapiwa Malenga (Captain)
- Dion Khumalo
- Tapiwa Mafura
- Tinotenda Blithe Mavesere
- Carlos Matematema
- Trevor Gurwe
Technical & Support Staff
- Head Coach: Ricky Paul Chirengende
- Team Manager: Tafadzwa Mhende
- Physiotherapist: Thelma Musingwini
