FLYHALF Ian Prior will not feature for the Sables this weekend, with Zimbabwe Rugby Union confirming a 30-man squad for the South Africa A fixture that does not include the experienced flyhalf due to other commitments.
Prior's absence is a notable one given his standing as one of Zimbabwe's top players in recent years, but head coach Pieter Benade has named a squad that draws heavily on players already involved in the SAS Training Camp, giving him continuity heading into what remains the Sables' most significant fixture of the year so far.
The squad includes Aiden Burnett, Bornwell Gwinji, Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, Bruce Houston, Dale Lemon, Daniel Cooke, Dion Khumalo, Dylan Utete, Edward Sigauke, Farai Mudariki, Gary Porter, Hilton Mudariki, Keegan Joubert, Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa, Kudzai Mashawi and Liam Larkan.
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They are joined by Michael Kumbirai, Simba Mandioma, Simbarashe Siraha, Tadiwanashe Gwashu, Tapiwa Mafura, Tatenda Kamubvumbi, Tinotenda Mavesere, Tjide Visser, Trevor Gurwe and Victor Mupunga, rounding out a squad that draws talent from clubs across Zimbabwe, South Africa, France, Spain and the United Kingdom.
With Prior unavailable, the responsibility of directing Zimbabwe's backline falls on the shoulders of the remaining playmakers within the squad, presenting an opportunity for one of them to stake a claim ahead of the Nations Cup in the United States next month.
The South Africa A fixture on 20 June remains the centrepiece of the Sables' domestic preparations before their departure for the Nations Cup on 28 June, and Benade will be eager for his squad to deliver a performance befitting the occasion despite missing one of his most experienced campaigners.