Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub THEY did it for country. They did it for pride. And now, Zimbabwe’s rugby warriors, The Sables, have done it for the people! Fresh off their history-making back-to-back Rugby Africa Cup triumph and booking their golden ticket to the 2027 Rugby World Cup, the Sables turned Harare into one giant street party, taking their trophy on a joyride through the city and straight into the hearts of millions. With the sweat of battle still fresh and their boots barely unpacked, the national heroes, led by charismatic captain Hilton Mudariki and fiery coach Pieter Benade, wasted no time reconnecting with their roots. In scenes that looked straight out of a blockbuster, the team rolled into Africa Unity Square, triggering a euphoric eruption of song, dance and unfiltered Zimbabwean pride. Flanked by sponsors Nedbank Zimbabwe and officials from the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), the convoy blasted through Harare’s buzzing veins, with Highfield, the heartbeat of old-school township culture, turning into a rugby carnival! School kids waved flags. Vendors ditched their wares to cheer. Office workers leaned out of windows. It was an ecstatic homecoming of giants. “This is their Africa Cup. We’re just the messengers,” declared Mudariki, eyes moist, voice booming. “Today was wild. Seeing people crying, screaming, chanting… that’s what we play for. That’s Zimbabwe.” And in true Sables fashion, they didn’t just cruise through. They danced, drummed and partied, turning bus stops into stages and traffic islands into drum circles. The final hurrah came at the iconic Trabablas Interchange, where crowd favourite Brian “B-Mack” Makamure brought the house down with a signature celebration that had even grannies busting moves. SRC Commercial Director Sheunopa Vushemakota, said it best: “These boys aren’t just athletes. They’re symbols. They’re hope in rugby boots. The people are their biggest fans and biggest stakeholders.” Coach Benade, now half-Zimbo by passion, beamed as he recounted a hilarious encounter: “Some guys in Highfield were shouting, ‘Coach, pick me for World Cup!’ Honestly, after today, I might just!” The Sables made history when they edged out fierce rivals Namibia 30-28, punching their ticket to the Rugby World Cup for the first time since 1991. But beyond the scoreboard, they’ve lit a fire in the nation’s soul. Zimbabwe salutes you, Sables. From Highfield to Australia, the roar of the people goes with you.