By Kuchineyi Lewis
The Zimbabwe Lady Sables’ spirits remain unbroken as they enter the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup as underdogs, in pursuit for continental glory. Departing from Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport yesterday, the national senior women’s rugby team landed in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, today, ready to defy expectations and make their nation proud.
Led by captain Sikhumbuzo Muchenje and vice-captains Vimbai Dewa and Tarren Munodaani, the squad will base themselves in San Pedro, the tournament’s host city, where they will face Côte d’Ivoire, Tunisia, and Uganda in a gruelling ten-day campaign.
“We know we’re coming in as underdogs, but that doesn’t shake our belief,” declared Muchenje before departure. “We may have had limited preparation time, but we’re united, determined, and ready to fight for something Zimbabwe can celebrate.”
The Lady Sables open their campaign against hosts Côte d’Ivoire on 11 April, followed by clashes with Tunisia (15 April) and Uganda (19 April). With a mix of experience and rising talent—including Mabel Marungweni, Mercy Runesu, Rutendo Morosi, and Cleopatra Kadimu—the team aims to prove that heart and teamwork can overcome any odds.
Zimbabwe’s participation signals a resurgence in women’s rugby, backed by sponsors such as Firstlink, Dodhill, Dumile Beef, Sabre Business World, and The Women’s Rugby Trust. As the Lady Sables step onto the field at Stade Auguste Denise, they carry not just their own ambitions, but the hopes of a nation rallying behind them.
Fixtures (San Pedro – Stade Auguste Denise):
11 April: Zimbabwe vs Côte d’Ivoire (16:00 CAT)
15 April: Zimbabwe vs Tunisia (14:00 CAT)
19 April: Zimbabwe vs Uganda (12:00 CAT)
Full Squad:
Forwards: Vimbai Dewa (VC), Skhumbuzo Muchenje (C), Mbalehle Mzizi, Mabel Marungweni, Tariro Nyamudeza, Patience Harubereki, Mercy Runesu, Gabriella Chawatama, Rutendo Morosi, Fadzai Mandizha, Erika Mack, Natalia Nyabinde.
Backs: Wadzanai Chidawa, Hazel Njaya, Chiwaniso Mabika, Tanaka Mutaramutswa, Simphiwe Gumbo, Ropafadzo Muzanechita, Kudzai Wasili, Tarren Munodaani (VC), Memory Moyo, Nokutenda Shoriwa, Cleopatra Kadimu, Pauline Sianga, Rufaro Tagarira, Ruvimbo Mudyanadzo, Lovelight Fusire, Kudzanai Chirinda.
Non-travelling Reserves: Bridget Magaso, Robyn Mhembere.
With unwavering belief and a nation behind them, the Lady Sables are ready to roar in Côte d’Ivoire—underdogs no more in spirit, even if on paper.
