Ellina Mhlanga
Senior Sports Reporter
RUGBY sevens team manager, Tafadzwa Mhende, says they are targeting a medal at the 13th edition of the African Games.
The continental multi-sport event is currently underway in Accra, Ghana, and runs until March 23.
Rugby is one of the 10 sport codes Zimbabwe is taking part in.
The rugby competition is expected to start early next week.
“We started training in September, so the guys are really eager to play.
“I think in Africa we are one of the best teams, so we are definitely coming back with a medal. Hopefully, it will be gold.
“A medal is definitely coming through,” said Mhende.
Speaking before their departure yesterday, Mhende said indications are that several teams withdrew, which affected the competition fixture.
The matches were initially expected to start on March 18.
“There is a bit of a challenge there, we were supposed to start on the 18th but most of the teams withdrew their participation.
“They are yet to publish the new fixture.
“We were supposed to be 16 teams but right now there are only seven confirmed teams,” said Mhende.
The African Games will also be a platform for them to build-up for the Africa Cup.
“I would like to thank the Zimbabwe Government for giving us this opportunity.
“The African Games will be very crucial for our preparations.”