Sports Correspondent

The Tag Rugby Trust has kicked off a senior tag rugby tournament at Harare Sports Club this Friday, marking an exciting step in the sport’s development in Zimbabwe. A non-contact variant of traditional rugby, tag rugby was introduced in the country three years ago with the aim of forming a national team to represent Zimbabwe on the international stage.

While the prospect of competing in the 2026 World Cup is part of the vision, the broader goal is to foster the growth of tag rugby within local communities, clubs, and high schools. The focus has been on high-density areas, creating opportunities for young people to not only play but also to experience international competitions.

The response has been encouraging, with participation from five clubs and seven schools, highlighting the sport’s growing appeal.

Tadius Hwata, the Young-Adult Project Manager for Tag Rugby Trust, emphasized the benefits of the sport’s non-contact nature, which lowers the risk of injury and makes it a more accessible option for those who may be hesitant to engage in traditional contact rugby.

To continue nurturing the sport, the organisers are hosting regular tournaments and providing training and exposure across the country’s provinces.

In another significant development, Zimbabwe received an invitation to participate in a prestigious tournament in South Africa this November, offering the team a valuable opportunity to gain international experience.