Game-On Reporter
South Africa A assistant coach Mzwandile Stick expects a stern test from Zimbabwe when the two sides clash in an international rugby encounter at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday.
The match kicks off at 12pm South African time at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday.
The match presents an opportunity for both teams to assess their strength and depth, with Zimbabwe arriving buoyed by qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup and eager to test themselves against one of the continent’s rugby powerhouses.
Stick said South Africa A would not underestimate the Sables, describing Zimbabwe as a settled side with experienced coaches capable of posing significant challenges.
“I am looking forward to seeing what this group of players can do against a determined Zimbabwe outfit, who have qualified for the 2027 World Cup, and will undoubtedly use this opportunity to test themselves against us as they prepare for the international spectacle,” said Stick.
Zimbabwe’s qualification for the global tournament has generated renewed confidence within the squad, and Saturday’s fixture offers another benchmark as they continue preparations for rugby’s biggest stage.
The South Africans have also used the build-up to the match to integrate several young and uncapped players into the squad, with Stick pleased by how quickly they have adapted to the senior environment.
“The young players and uncapped guys have really slotted in well in the last week, and one can sense the excitement among them to take the field,” he said.
“This match will provide fantastic senior international exposure for them, and for Zimbabwe as well, and I believe they have the goods to play an exciting brand of rugby, which will be great for the coaches to assess our depth as we not only build for this season, but with an eye on the RWC next year as well.”
Despite fielding a mixture of established internationals and emerging talent, Stick stressed that South Africa A would need to maintain discipline and execute their structures against a Zimbabwe side expected to play with intensity.
“They have a settled team, and they have good coaches, so they will throw everything at us, and we need to be ready for that,” he said.
“The keys for us this weekend will be to stick to our structures and for the individuals to use the talent that earned them selection for this group, so we are looking forward to seeing what they deliver on the field,” he said
The South Africa A squad will conclude its main training camp in Johannesburg on Wednesday before travelling to Gqeberha for the final phase of preparations ahead of the noon kick-off.
Vincent Tshituka will captain the hosts, with experienced Springbok centre Lukhanyo Am among the notable inclusions in the starting line-up.