The ManicaPost
Takudzwa Manzero
Sports Reporter
MANICALAND Rugby Select began their challenge for the third edition of the 2024 Men’s Nedbank Cup with a 16-17 loss to pre-tournament favourites Old Hararians at Harare Sports Club this afternoon.
The competition kicked off with 10 teams competing in the opening round, which Manicaland Select lost by a single point.
The select coach, Takunda Mwayera, urged the team to stay united and focused regardless of their narrow defeat.
“The score was unfortunate, but we fought like real warriors. If we stay united we can come back better and stronger next week. We remain optimistic, and hope that the fans will rally behind the team in Harare,” he said.
Manicaland Rugby Board vice chairman George Mufute said they were happy to see their players hoist the province’s flag high.
He also expressed gratitude to the cup organisers.
“It is a very good opportunity to be participating in the Nedbank Cup. It gives the boys and girls an opportunity to gain exposure and experience. We are happy that this tournament aligns with our vision to see the beautiful game grow at grassroots so that it gets embraced in our communities. Going forward, we expect the game to be met with the same enthusiasm as football,” he said.
The select captain, Elijah Mbawa expressed optimism that the team will reach knockout stages of the tournament.
Meanwhile, five ladies from Manicaland – Lisa Mutetwa (Zim A), Paida Gwenzi (Zim A), Elsie Bhasvi (Zim A), Rutendo Morosi (SA) and Ruvimbo Audrey Manase(SA) – were selected for the women’s national squad that competed in the curtain raiser featuring Zimbabwe A vs Sables Academy.
Saturday’s fixtures results:
Old Georgians 25-9 Pitbulls,
Nedbank Junior Sables Under 20 won against Matebeleland
Harare Sports Club 19 -10 Nedbank HPC U20
SAA 25-3 Zim A
Manicaland Rugby Select:
Elijah Mbawa (Captain), Rodwell Shapi, Delan Chuduku, Takudzwa Saurombe, Benice Mugadhuwi, Elliot Chimwamurombe, Ambrose Sakala, Brendon Sibanda, Liberty Mugabe, McCloud Mkandla (Vice Captain), Tadiwa Nyamundanda, Tanyaradzwa Murangwa, Stephan Hunduza, Takudzwa Chimuka, Sean Kusena, Linton Kusena, Marlon Zvinoitavanhu, Tinashe Guwa, Takudzwa Dembaremba, Nyasha Chikadza, Quintonne Jones, Dean Makweche, Tadiwa Muchinguri.
Coach: Stephen Hunduza
