INTERNATIONAL

Zimbabwe Sables change 1 ahead of Kenya Simbas date, beef bench with Cornish Pirates fly-half

By Amanga collins

Posted on July 12, 2025

Zimbabwe Sables line up for the UAE match. PHOTO/Screengrab

Zimbabwe Sables have confirmed their squad for the Rugby Africa Cup semi-final clash against Kenya Simbas, scheduled for Sunday at Nelson Mandela Stadium, Kampala.

The forwards remain unchanged, with Victor Mpunga, Simba Mandioma, and Cleopas Kundiona forming the front row. The second row pairing of Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa and Simba Siraha also stays intact.

Zimbabwe Sables back row

The back row features Tinotenda Mavesere, Godfrey Muzanargwo, and Jason Fraser, who will be tasked with dominating the breakdowns and driving play forward.

Captain Hilton Mudariki retains the scrum-half role, combining once again with Ian Prior, who starts at fly-half.

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In the midfield, Kudzai Mashawi starts at inside centre once again, while Brandon Mudzekenyedzi takes up the outside centre position.

Edward Sigauke remains on the left wing, while Matthew McNab comes in for Trevor Gurwe on the opposite wing. Tapiwa Mafura retains his place at fullback.

A notable addition to the bench is Cornish Pirates fly-half Bruce Houston, who joins the squad for the first time and is expected to bring depth and experience to the backline.

The Sables will be looking to defend their title and book a spot in the final as they face a resurgent Kenya Simbas side aiming for a return to the continental summit.

Zimbabwe Sables squad for Kenya match

1. Victor Mpunga
2. Simba Mandioma
3. Cleopas Kundiona
4. Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa
5. Simba Siraha
6. Tinotenda Mavesere
7. Godfrey Muzanargwo
8. Jason Fraser
9. Hilton Mudariki (C)
10. Ian Prior
11. Edward Sigauke
12. Kudzai Mashawi
13. Brandon Mudzekenyedzi
14. Matthew McNab
15. Tapiwa Mafura