Harare, Zimbabwe, 29th March 2025 | Day One of the fourth edition of the Nedbank Challenge Cup delivered high-octane action, fierce competition, and a showcase of Zimbabwe’s rugby talent at the Machinery Exchange Stadium, Harare Sports Club.
Game 1 saw the women’s selection sides, the Possibles and Probables, kick off the tournament in style. The Possibles outclassed their counterparts 34–12 in a fast-paced encounter, laying the groundwork for what promises to be a vibrant future in women’s rugby.
Game 2 featured a major upset as the Nedbank Junior Sables (U20) stunned multiple-time national champions Old Georgians RFC with a 33–22 win. The juniors showed remarkable structure, pace, and determination—perfect preparation ahead of the Barthes Trophy.
In Game 3, The Pitbulls RFC overpowered Manicaland Province 36–7. Despite an early lead from the visitors, the Pitbulls’ strength in set-pieces and defence proved too much for the valiant side from the Eastern Highlands.
Game 4 saw Old Hararians flex their muscles with a 31–8 win over Matabeleland Province. With Sables stars like Hilton Mudariki and Aiden Bennet on the pitch, OH controlled the match with intensity and composure.
The day closed with Game 5, where hosts and reigning champions Harare Sports Club comfortably defeated the young and promising Nedbank HPC side 25–13. The HPC squad, part of Nedbank’s Grassroots to Greatness initiative, showed resilience and promise despite the experienced opposition.
Matches resume next weekend on Saturday 5 April and Sunday 6 April 2025, with Day Two fixtures to be released on Monday.
Day One ends with champions asserting dominance and emerging talent turning heads. The stage is set for another exciting weekend of rugby action.
