Staff Reporter
The Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) is facing mounting scrutiny amid serious allegations of financial mismanagement and mistreatment of the Lady Sables during their recent participation in the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup qualifiers in Côte d’Ivoire.
While the team managed to secure a win from their three matches, attention has shifted sharply to the troubling circumstances that surrounded their tour. Several players and sources close to the team have come forward with disturbing claims, painting a picture of neglect, humiliation, and financial exploitation.
In a move that stunned many, Lady Sables head coach Cyprian Sibanda was left behind due to the ZRU’s failure to secure his return flight.
“The Union could not afford to send him. He had to choose his job over national duty. Sibanda, who also teaches at Gateway High School, reportedly could not risk traveling without guarantees of getting back in time for work,” said a source.
More troubling, players say they were forced to buy their own blazers for the national send-off.
“We were told to buy our own blazers. It was humiliating, especially when we were supposed to represent our country. To make matters worse, the Union held an official ceremony presenting the very blazers the players had paid for themselves,” one player shared.
Financial issues did not stop there. After staging a boycott over unpaid allowances, players were given just US$150 each.
“Some players, especially those based in South Africa, didn’t receive any allowance. We were disrespected after giving our all on the field,” another player said.
In perhaps the most damning allegation, sources accuse ZRU Chairperson Regina Mwanandiwa of receiving the full allocation of players’ allowances but failing to disburse the funds.
“We were told that Regina had received the money meant for us, but we never saw a cent,” a source alleged.
Upon their return, the players were instructed to return their playing kits or risk arrest.
“We were told if we didn’t return our kits, we could face arrest,” said one team member.
Efforts to reach the ZRU for comment were unsuccessful, as calls and emails went unanswered.
Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Recreation, Emily Jesaya, confirmed her office had received formal complaints.
“These are serious concerns, and I want to assure all stakeholders, including the players and coaches, that the welfare of our athletes is paramount. The ministry is committed to a transparent and impartial investigation through the Sports and Recreation Commission,” she said.
She emphasized that any wrongdoing will be addressed.
“We are committed to ensuring all processes are followed and any substantiated findings are addressed appropriately. The well-being of our athletes remains our top priority.”
The scandal has sparked widespread outrage in Zimbabwe’s sporting circles, with many calling for urgent reforms within the ZRU and justice for the Lady Sables.
