The Zimbabwe National Senior Women’s Rugby Team, the Lady Sables, will take to the field for the final time in the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Qualifiers in Côte d’Ivoire this Saturday against Uganda, determined to end their campaign with another powerful performance.

Having entered the tournament ranked lowest among the four competing nations, Zimbabwe has defied expectations with a spirited showing. 

Their opening match on April 11 saw them deliver a thunderous upset over the hosts, Ivory Coast, with a commanding 46–8 win. It was a display of sheer determination, discipline, and heart — a result that not only boosted morale but also set a new tone for Zimbabwean women’s rugby.

“That win against Ivory Coast sparked something in us,” said team captain Skhumbuzo Muchenje. “We had promised to bring some smiles back home, and that performance gave us a taste of victory that we want to enjoy again.”

The team’s second match, against a well-drilled Tunisia side on April 15, was a narrow 24–27 loss. Despite the heartbreak of falling just short, the Lady Sables delivered an inspired comeback, led by MVP Ruvimbo Mudyanadzo’s stunning breakaway try. 

The closely fought contest, which saw Zimbabwe erase a 12-point deficit before Tunisia edged ahead late in the game, left many fans proud of the team’s resilience.

“Things didn’t work well for us and it was heartbreaking in game two,” Muchenje reflected. “But that’s rugby — it’s a game of margins, and sometimes things don’t go your way.”

Now, all eyes turn to the final match against Uganda — a team currently topping the standings after two strong wins. Uganda will be looking to seal qualification to the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup in Cape Town this May. But Zimbabwe also remains in contention, and a win could reshape the final table depending on results elsewhere.

The significance of this fixture is not lost on the team.

“We don’t often get a chance to play Test rugby,” said Muchenje. “We will make the most of this last match and give it everything we have.”

The Lady Sables have not only shown character on the field but have also been part of a broader vision for the sport. 

Zimbabwe Women’s Rugby Chairperson Regina Mwanandiwa highlighted the team’s efforts as part of a long-term plan to grow the women’s game:

“We are proud of the team, and are actively working towards ambitious goals beyond this tournament — expanding the game to create platforms for university scholarships and fostering pathways for international rugby careers.”

Saturday’s clash against Uganda promises to be a spirited encounter, with Zimbabwe looking to draw on their tournament experience, the guidance of their coaching staff, and the unity they’ve built as a squad.

Fans can catch the action live or on replay via the Rugby Africa Facebook page. Whether or not the Lady Sables advance to Cape Town, they have already made an indelible mark — proving that Zimbabwe belongs on this stage, and that the future of women’s rugby back home is full of promise.