By Mahlon Lichuma
Zimbabwe head coach Pieter Benade and captain Hilton Mudariki have welcomed their Rugby World Cup 2027 Pool F draw with a mixture of pride, ambition and realism, after being grouped with England, Wales and Tonga.
The draw, conducted in Sydney on 3 December, confirmed Zimbabwe’s first World Cup appearance since 1991, marking a major milestone for the resurgent Sables.
Benade described the prospect of facing England as “insane and magical,” stressing that the chance to test themselves against a top-tier nation is exactly what Zimbabwe hoped for. He noted that form two years out can be misleading, urging his players not to over-analyse the current state of Wales or Tonga but instead focus on building steadily. Their first target, he said, will be to challenge Tonga, while also pushing Wales and making “every African proud” when they meet England.
Reflecting on their Rugby Africa Men’s Cup triumph, which secured qualification, Benade praised his squad for handling the immense pressure better than the coaching staff. Seeing Zimbabwe’s flag represented at the draw, he added, was a moment of immense pride and a reminder of the responsibility ahead.
Looking forward, Benade highlighted the value of World Rugby’s support, including workshops, grants and the expanded Nations Cup, which will pit Zimbabwe against teams like Samoa, Chile, USA and Uruguay. He emphasised the importance of sustainable long-term development rather than chasing short-term gains.
Captain Mudariki echoed the excitement, calling England, Wales and Tonga “tough, quality opposition,” but insisted Zimbabwe will aim to be fiercely competitive and chase history: “If we work for it, why can’t Zimbabwe pull off a World Cup upset?”
English