Zambezi Cheetahs Eye Rugby Africa Sevens Title and International Qualification in Mauritius
Zimbabwe’s senior men’s Sevens rugby team, the Zambezi Cheetahs, are brimming with confidence as they kick off their 2025 Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens Cup campaign in Port Louis, Mauritius, this morning. The Cheetahs are aiming not only to win the prestigious title at the two-day tournament, which wraps up tomorrow, but also to secure their ticket back to consistent international competition.
The significance of this tournament is high, as a strong performance could lead to qualification for the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series, a crucial step towards global competition and even a potential pathway to Olympic qualification. The Cheetahs last lifted the Africa Sevens title in 2012, and this squad is eager to end that trophy drought.
Tournament Schedule and Team Leadership
The Cheetahs are in Pool C and will face tough competition from Tunisia, Mauritius, and Madagascar. Their schedule today starts with a morning clash against Tunisia, followed by a midday game against the host nation, Mauritius. They’ll then finish their group stage matches in the afternoon by playing Madagascar. With only the top two teams from each pool advancing to the knockouts, every match will be a high-stakes encounter.
Here are the Cheetahs’ fixtures for today (all times are local Mauritius time):
* 09:00 – Zimbabwe vs Tunisia
* 11:44 – Zimbabwe vs Mauritius
* 14:50 – Madagascar vs Zimbabwe
The team is led by Head Coach Ricky Chirengende and Captain Tapiwa Malenga. Supporting them behind the scenes are Team Manager Tafadzwa Mhende and Physiotherapist Thelma Musingwini, ensuring the squad is well-prepared and cared for throughout the demanding tournament.
Coach and Captain’s Confidence
Head coach Ricky Chirengende has strong faith in his team’s abilities.
“It’s been a long time since we assembled a squad this strong,” he said. “We’ve made up for lost prep time with the quality of our selection. We’re going out to bring back the big prize.”
Captain Tapiwa Malenga echoed his coach’s enthusiasm, highlighting the team’s preparation and drive.
“We’re confident, focused and ready. This tournament is our ticket back to consistent international competition,”
Malenga stated. The Cheetahs’ powerful 12 man squad combines experienced players with promising new talent, including several standout members from the victorious Sables 15s team, adding to the team’s depth and versatility.
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