Zimbabwe Senior Men’s Sevens team, the Zambezi Cheetahs, departed Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport this morning for Port Louis, Mauritius, ahead of the 2025 Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens Cup scheduled for 21–22 June.
Drawn in Pool C, the Cheetahs will take on Tunisia in the morning, hosts Mauritius at midday, and Madagascar in the afternoon, as they begin their quest to reclaim continental dominance.
Coach Ricky Chirengende is confident the team is up to the task, pointing to the depth and quality of the squad:
“It’s been a long time since we assembled a squad this strong. We’ve made up for lost prep time with the quality of our selection. We’re going out to bring back the big prize.”
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The Cheetahs last tasted African glory in 2012, and this year’s squad is eager to end that drought. Captain Tapiwa Malenga underlined the team’s determination ahead of the tournament:
“We’re confident, focused, and ready. This tournament is our ticket back to consistent international competition.”
A strong performance in Mauritius could open doors for Zimbabwe, including qualification for the World Rugby Challenger Series and a renewed push towards the Olympic Games.
The 12-man squad features a blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging stars: Zimbabwe Cheetahs squad unveiled ahead of 2025 Rugby Africa Men’s 7s
