Selection surprise as Ian Prior misses out on Sables training squad

Zimbabwe coach Pieter Benade has called up two United Rugby Championship stars as the Sables continue their preparations for Saturday's clash against South Africa 'A'. The squad announced by Benade mixes capped internationals, Rugby World Cup stalwarts, and a sprinkling of youth as Zimbabwe looks to maintain its recent momentum in Africa.

Home-Based Champions Welcome Back URC Stars

Stormers lock Gary Porter and Sharks loose forward Tinotenda Blithe Mavesere return to assist the Zimbabwe setup as they look to take on one of the southern hemisphere's best nations. Porter will join fellow second rower Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa in the second row, while Mavesere starts at No. 8.

Benade has described the inclusion of Porter and Mavesere as "important" for his side. "It's great having experienced players like Gary and Tinotenda available for selection," said Benade.

"Both of them have represented Zimbabwe in the past and have extensive experience in one of the top club competitions in the world. For us, they're squad players, but more importantly, they show us depth and quality as we continue to grow as a team." Porter and Mavesere's arrival comes at a time when Zimbabwe is showing clear signs of improvement on the world stage. They conquered Africa at the Rugby World Cup Qualifiers and booked their ticket to France next year.

World Cup Qualifiers Winners Spearhead the Squad

Nyakufaringwa was instrumental in Zimbabwe qualifying for the Rugby World Cup for the first time in 36 years and will start at lock alongside Porter. Former Ulster and Edinburgh fly-half Bruce Houston will start at No. 10, while captain Hilton Mudariki will start at scrum-half.

Rugby insiders, Bettingtop10 Zimbabwe has learned, that former Zimbabwe captain Phineas Makotore was included on the bench but withdrew from the roster from an ongoing injury.

Surprise Inclusion Mafura Faces Off Against Old Lions Teammates

Benade has entrusted former Lions tighthead prop, Tapiwa Mafura, with the captaincy at fullback. The inclusion of Mafura will spark added interest as the winger will go up against some of his former Lions teammates should they feature for South Africa 'A'.

Midfielders Brandon Mudzekenyedzi and Kudza Mashawi complete the backline, with Trevor Gurwe and Edward Sigauke starting on the wings.

South Africa's A' Looking To Unleash Future Prospects

South Africa 'A' are an interesting mix of young talent and players who are pushing for selection in the Springbok setup. They will see this match as an opportunity to impress Rugby boss, Jason Jeagles, and force their way into future national plans. Zimbabwe will have to be wary, as they know that South Africa 'A' will throw everything they have at them.

Africa champions Zimbabwe will look at this fixture as an audition of sorts. Zimbabwe qualified for the World Cup for the first time in their history, but will want to see how they measure up against sides that finished above them in the Rugby World Cup qualifiers. Yes, it's officially a friendly, but Benade and co. know this is a golden opportunity to see where they stand ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023.

"This is a great opportunity for us to see where we are after just topping off our RWC qualifying campaign with a home Nations Series win against Samoa," added Benade.