The Zimbabwe Cheetahs have unveiled an exciting and largely youthful squad for the 2024 Rugby Africa Men’s 7s set to take place in Mauritius from June 29 to July 7.
Head Coach Ricky Chirengende has blended experience with fresh talent, aiming for a strong performance in this two-weekend event.
Zimbabwe Cheetahs
France-based speedster Thabani Maguranyanga has been handed his debut in national colours.
Among the experienced players retained are captain Tapiwa Mafela, Ryan Musumhi, Carlos Matematema, Vuyani Dhlomo, Nigel Tinarwo, and Kudakwashe Nyamakura.
Their presence is to provide the much-needed international experience to the team.
Chirengende has also tapped into Zimbabwe’s growing pool of talent by including former U20 Junior Sables players Edward Sigauke and Shadreck Mandaza, who recently participated in the Rugby Africa Sevens Olympic Qualifiers.
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Joining them are promising young players Dion Khumalo, Kholwani Moyo, and Man Mawunga.
The non-travelling reserves for the tournament include Godfrey Magaramombe, Tinotenda Rusike, Trevo Gurwe, and Godwin Mangenje, ready to step in if needed.
Zimbabwe is placed in Group C, alongside northern neighbors Zambia, Algeria, and South Africa. The tournament will be played in two phases, with the first phase scheduled for June 29 and 30, and the second phase on July 6 and 7. The Cheetahs will kick off their campaign against Algeria, followed by matches against South Africa and Zambia in the first phase.
Zimbabwe Cheetahs Squad:
1. Tapiwa Mafela (Captain)
2. Ryan Musumhi
3. Carlos Matematema
4. Vuyani Dhlomo
5. Nigel Tinarwo
6. Kudakwashe Nyamakura
7. Edward Sigauke
8. Shadreck Mandaza
9. Dion Khumalo
10. Kholwani Moyo
11. Man Mawunga
12. Thabani Maguranyanga
**Non-Traveling Reserves:**
1. Godfrey Magaramombe
2. Tinotenda Rusike
3. Trevo Gurwe
4. Godwin Mangenje
