The Zimbabwe Rugby National Team began their Asian tour with a powerful 62-22 win over the United Arab Emirates at the 7s Stadium in Dubai.
The Sables wasted no time, getting on the scoreboard in the first minute when fly-half Ian Prior slotted a close-range penalty.
They continued to apply pressure, eventually securing their first try through a penalty try awarded after repeated UAE infringements in the maul, which also saw a UAE forward sent to the sin bin.
Zimbabwe’s loose forward Godfrey Muzanargwo and captain Hilton Mudariki extended the lead to 24-0, both crossing over the try line with conversions added by Prior.
The hosts struggled to respond to Zimbabwe’s fluid play, directed by Prior’s clever kicks and sharp territorial gains.
Zimbabwe coach Pieter Benade’s decision to play Sharks starlet Tinotenda Mavesera at eighthman proved successful, as he was a constant threat with ball in hand, regularly breaking the defensive line with his hard running.
Tighthead prop Munashe Mhere, debuting for the Sables and a standout in South Africa’s Currie Cup with the Pumas, also impressed as a powerful ball carrier, creating gaps in the UAE defense.
For the first time in a while, the Sables’ lineout functioned seamlessly, with veteran hooker Matthew Mandioma, making his 48th appearance, consistently connecting with his jumpers.
UAE managed only three points in the first half, while Zimbabwe added two more tries through pacey wing Edward Sigauke and Mudariki, heading into halftime with a commanding 36-3 lead.
In the second half, UAE emerged with renewed purpose, putting pressure on the Sables’ set pieces. Zimbabwe struggled to regain rhythm as penalties mounted, allowing UAE to capitalize with tries from forwards Epeli Davetawalu and Matt Mills.
However, Zimbabwe responded when Trevor Guruwe broke through for their sixth try. Sigauke, in fine form, completed his hat-trick with two more tries, stretching the score to 55-15.
Center Brandon Mudzekenyedzi then crossed the line to put the final touch on Zimbabwe’s scoreboard.
UAE had the last say, earning a penalty try after Zimbabwe lock Simbarashe Siraha was penalized and sin-binned for entering the maul from the side.
Despite the emphatic win, the Sables may want to focus on improving their set pieces, particularly their scrums, where they faced significant challenges in the second half. Next, Zimbabwe heads to South Korea to continue their Asian tour.
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