A 36-Year Wait Finally Over
Zimbabwe have qualified for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia after defeating Namibia 30-28 in the final of the Rugby Africa Cup 2025, held at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda. This historic victory marks Zimbabwe’s return to the Rugby World Cup for the first time since 1991, ending a 36-year absence from the sport’s flagship event.
The Sables produced a composed and determined performance to overcome a Namibian side that had qualified for the previous seven Rugby World Cups, claiming the continental title for the second year in a row.
A Nail-Biting Final
The match itself was a tense, back-and-forth affair. Cliven Loubser opened the scoring for Namibia before Ian Prior responded for Zimbabwe. Kudzai Mashawi then crossed for the game’s opening try, and Prior extended Zimbabwe’s lead soon after. Namibia hit back through captain Prince Gaoseb, and Loubser’s conversion levelled the scores at 16-16 by half-time. Zimbabwe ultimately held their nerve to close out the win, 30-28.
Making History, Twice Over
Zimbabwe were actually the first African nation ever to appear at a Rugby World Cup, competing in 1987 and 1991. With this qualification, they become the second African nation confirmed for the 2027 tournament, joining reigning world champions South Africa and this will mark Zimbabwe’s third appearance at the global showpiece.
Captain Hilton Mudariki and head coach Pieter Benade both reflected on the significance of the achievement, with Mudariki noting it as a chance to write history, just as previous generations of Sables did in 1987 and 1991.
What’s Next for the Sables
Currently ranked 26th in the World Rugby Men’s Rankings, Zimbabwe will now turn their attention to the Rugby World Cup 2027 Draw, where they will learn their pool opponents in the newly expanded 24-team tournament. Zimbabwe are set to face England, Wales and Tonga during the pool stage in Australia.
Meanwhile, runners-up Namibia haven’t given up hope they progress to a cross-regional play-off against the United Arab Emirates for a chance to reach the Final Qualification Tournament and potentially secure a third African spot at the tournament.
The Bottom Line
Zimbabwe’s qualification is more than a return to the world stage it’s a statement of the growing depth and competitiveness of African rugby. With the tournament kicking off in October 2027, the Sables now have two years to prepare for what promises to be their most anticipated World Cup campaign in a generation.
