‘It’s going to be a party’: South Africans laugh at Zimbabwe Rugby World Cup qualification

Zimbabwe’s return to the Rugby World Cup sparked huge excitement across Africa. After a painful 34-year absence, the Sables finally made it.

Rugbypass proudly shared, “After a 34 year wait we will see Zimbabwe in another Rugby World Cup .” Fans from Zimbabwe cheered the historic comeback, remembering the days when the Sables were once a respected force.

For years, Zimbabwean rugby struggled against funding issues and talent drain. Now, hope has returned. Players, coaches, and fans see this as a fresh start. The road ahead won’t be easy, but Zimbabwe is back on rugby’s biggest stage.

South Africans Zimbabwe Rugby World Cup party — Sables. image via Instagram @zimbabwesables

Zimbabwean Sables vs the Springboks

Meanwhile, South African fans couldn’t resist some playful banter. After all, the Springboks remain the world’s best rugby team. South Africans took to social media, laughing warmly at Zimbabwe’s qualification. They joked about the clear difference in class between the Sables and the mighty Springboks.

Historically, the two teams once faced off more competitively. Yet today, the Springboks are four-time world champions, dominating global rugby. Zimbabwe, by contrast, celebrates just qualifying after decades of struggle. Still, this sparked classic neighbourly teasing. Some fans boasted about South Africa’s strength, while others welcomed Zimbabwe warmly.

Despite the jokes, there’s respect underneath. Rugby brings nations together, even if the scoreboard shows a gap. As the World Cup in Australia approaches, African fans will watch closely. The Sables may not challenge the Springboks yet, but they’ve already won hearts by making it this far.