The Zimbabwe U20 ‘Junior Sables’ Rugby Team Departs Unceremoniously for the Rugby World Cup in Kenya on Wednesday morning.
The team that would represent the country in the world cup was seen off by their parents solely, which was a sad one as they silently departed for Kenya.
The team, which was scheduled to leave at around 2pm, was notified that their flight had been postponed until 7pm, which only served to aggravate the situation.
They had to be driven back to Avondale by their parents and officials, who also planned lunch at St. Elmos.
When they arrived back at the airport in time for check-in, they were given more unfavorable information: their flight had been delayed once again until 1am.
The boys were not discouraged by their experience and still committed to go and compete for the trophy, according to Muzuva Gutu’s mother Chido Musasiwa. “It is sad that after all the preparations by the team they left in such a manner without the government support or acknowledgement,” she added. Hopefully, fellow Zimbabweans will give them a formal welcome upon their return.
Another parent Lisa Masterson mother to 18 year old Hentley Masterson, said it was an honor for him to represent Zimbabwe. “The boys put forth a lot of effort and dedication. They worked extremely hard for this tournament.”
Again, the parents had to scrape together some cash for their dinner. Waiting for midnight to arrive so they could check in, they sat hopelessly in the bitter cold at the RGM International Airport.
Panashe Zuze, the Sables team captain, continued to insist that they would represent Zimbabwe honorably when they played Scotland and Uruguay, of which Tanaka Chinyanga who plays in the center agreed to his captain’s comment.
The team had the good fortune to play with the Zimbabwe “A” team, the Harare select team and some top teams, making them fit and prepared to compete in the world cup, according to assistant coach Costa Dinha.
Similar thoughts were expressed by Coach Shaun De Souza, “The boys are excited and ready for Kenya because they know what’s at stake. Without a doubt they will deliver their best.”
Unfortunately, this publication was unable to get in touch with the sports ministry for a response regarding this team’s situation.
