Zimpapers Logo

Sports Reporter
CHEETAHS captain Hilton “Rihana” Mudariki believes the Zimbabwe Sevens rugby side need to do more if they are to make it to the 2016 Rio Olympics. Zimbabwe need to win the Africa Cup, which is being used as the Olympic qualifier, next month if they are to make it to the Olympic Games.

The Cheetahs finished fourth in Kenya recently.

“It was a tough tournament but we have five weeks to prepare and fix the little things that didn’t work for us and to keep improving on the things we did well as there are many positives we can take out of this weekend,” said Mudariki.

“Kenya will be a challenge but we have to take it game by game, tick all the boxes we need to and just focus on our game.”

The Safari Sevens was the Cheetahs last tournament before they travel to South Africa for the battle to qualify for Rio.

And coach Daniel Hondo knows they have a big challenge.

“Last year we came very close but we missed it (becoming a core member). I think we can push it a bit higher in the coming season and maybe we can get one or two appearances in the series.

“Zimbabwe is going big on Sevens and I believe it is just a matter of time.

“I think we started the (Kenya) tournament very well, played our group matches with some good flair and defensive approach.

“But we were a bit fatigued heading into the semi-finals and we lost to Kenya because they were more disciplined and physical.

“We just found it hard matching their physicality and lost. By the time we were facing Western Province, we were drained.

“It has been a superb outing for us because we have learnt a lot. Along with the regular first team players, I gave some young players a chance and I am pleased with what they have given.

“It will be tough no doubt about that. Kenya are phenomenal in sevens, one of the best on the continent,” said Hondo.