SARU President Mark Alexander on Zimbabwe Clash as a Step Forward
“We view this as part of our broader mandate to assist African rugby unions in building capacity and creating meaningful opportunities,” says President of South African Rugby Union, Mark Alexander.
CAPE TOWN, South Africa – South African Rugby Union (SARU) President Mark Alexander has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the growth of the game in Africa following the announcement last week of a historic fixture between Zimbabwe and a South Africa ‘A’ side to take place on 20 June.
Global rugby powerhouse South Africa have extended a helping hand to neighbouring Zimbabwe, who will use the match as part of their preparations for the 2027 World Cup in Australia. It will mark the Sables’ first Webb Ellis Cup appearance since their last qualification in 1991.
The match between the Sables and South Africa ‘A’ will serve as a curtain-raiser for the clash between the Springboks and the Barbarians in the South African coastal city of Gqeberha (formerly known as Port Elizabeth).
“Zimbabwe has long been a close rugby neighbour and the upcoming fixture against South Africa ‘A’ on 20 June is highly significant,” Alexander told Rugby Africa Media this week.
“It offers Zimbabwean players exposure to a higher level of competition, which will undoubtedly accelerate their growth. It also reinforces the bonds between our unions and demonstrates our commitment to uplifting rugby standards in the region.”
While Zimbabwe are excited for the opportunity to test themselves against the next generation of Springboks in front of a passionate crowd in South Africa, the SARU boss believes the four-time World Cup-winning nation will also benefit from the fixture.
“For South Africa, this match is important in terms of player development,” remarked Alexander.
“As (Springboks) coach Rassie Erasmus has noted, it provides fringe players with valuable game time and a chance to stake their claim for higher honours. At the same time, it allows us to contribute to the growth of Zimbabwean rugby, making it a mutually beneficial occasion.”
Alexander – who was nominated as SARU president on April 13 for another four-year term – also applauded Rugby Africa for its role in bringing the match to fruition.
“SARU worked closely with the president of Rugby Africa, Herbert Mensah, to facilitate the organisation of this match,” said Alexander.
“Our role was to provide logistical and administrative support, ensuring that the fixture could be staged successfully. Importantly, the Rugby Africa president also played a major role in facilitating this match for Zimbabwe, underscoring the collaborative spirit across the continent. We view this as part of our broader mandate to assist African rugby unions in building capacity and creating meaningful opportunities.”
SARU, meanwhile, has also pledged continued support to the rest of Africa beyond Zimbabwe.
“South Africa has always seen it as part of our responsibility to support rugby development across Africa,” he said.
“We have consistently provided both technical and administrative support, not only to Zimbabwe but to many unions across the continent. This includes coaching exchanges, referee development and administrative guidance to help strengthen governance structures.”
Written by Enock Muchinjo
