This year has been a landmark one for Zimbabwe Sables’ captain Hilton Mudariki, marking an incredible 12 months of dedication and achievement.
After years of hard work and determination, Mudariki reached a significant milestone by leading Zimbabwe to a historic win over Namibia during the Africa Cup tournament held in Kampala, Uganda, in July. The commanding 32-10 victory in the semi-finals was Zimbabwe’s first triumph over Namibia in 23 years, breaking a long-standing drought.
This achievement was further elevated when the Sables clinched their second-ever Africa Cup title, their first in 12 years, following their successful march to the tournament’s final.
Mudariki’s remarkable year continued as he celebrated his 50th international cap during Zimbabwe’s recent tour of the Middle East and Asia. But the pinnacle of this eventful year came earlier this week when he and his teammates, along with the technical staff, were hosted by President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the State House in Harare.
“It’s an incredible honor,” Mudariki said of the occasion. “There are no words to truly capture the feeling. This is a day the Zimbabwe Sables will cherish forever. Being recognized by the President for our efforts this year is something we deeply appreciate and will draw motivation from as we look ahead.”
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Reflecting on his many achievements this year, Mudariki highlighted meeting the President as the most special moment of all. “Standing here at the State House is something extraordinary. It’s not an experience many get to have, and it’s truly humbling. Everything else this year comes close, but this stands out,” he said.
He also credited the team’s collective spirit for their accomplishments. “We’ve got an amazing group of players who have defied the odds. At the start of the year, not many believed in us. To see what we’ve achieved together is a testament to the character and determination within this team,” he added.
During the event, President Mnangagwa awarded each team member US$6,500, a gesture of appreciation for their stellar performance. The President commended the team, describing their success as a reflection of the Government’s National Development Strategy 1, which prioritizes the growth of high-performance sports and elite athletes.
“It gives me great pleasure to host our national rugby team as we celebrate your remarkable victory at the Rugby Africa Cup,” President Mnangagwa said. “Your teamwork and patriotism have brought pride to the nation. This achievement is a testament to your dedication, perseverance, and resilience in the face of challenges both on and off the field.”
The President also acknowledged the hard work behind the team’s success, noting the intense training and pressure the Sables endured to overcome formidable opponents. He expressed optimism about the team’s future, especially as they prepare to defend their Africa Cup title next year.
Mudariki emphasized the importance of the recognition and financial reward, stating that it would inspire the team as they gear up for 2024. The upcoming Africa Cup tournament will be particularly significant as it doubles as a qualification pathway for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. The tournament winner will secure an automatic spot, while the runner-up will have a chance at qualification through a repechage event.
“We’ll take a short break but return in January to start preparations for the Africa Cup,” Mudariki explained. “It’s going to be a crucial year. As defending champions, we’ll have a target on our backs, and everyone will be aiming to take us down. We need to stay grounded, keep working hard, and remain focused on our goals.”
Mudariki expressed confidence in the unity and shared vision across all levels of Zimbabwean rugby, from the players and coaches to the union and fans. “We’re all aligned in our mission to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. That’s the ultimate goal,” he concluded.
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