THE country has established its first independent rugby franchise, Kuva Blue Thunder (KBT) and has wasted no time as it is, set to participate in a yet to be announced international franchise competition.
KBT was birthed to create a professional pathway for Zimbabwe rugby players, a departure from the current amateur ranks that still prevail in the country.
The idea of a semi-professional franchise league which would eventually lead to an entirely professional league, was first mooted in 2010 and Kyros Sports were at the centre of the negotiations.
Conditions prevailing in the country at the time after dollarisation were conducive for such a historic event because many brands were looking for something to ride on after years of hyperinflation.
But the franchise league suffered a stillbirth.
However, this establishment of KBT caught many by surprise, especially after the world cup debacle, which promised so much but delivered very little.
Every four years after the Sables fail to qualify for the world cup, there is always a surprise, and the founding of KBT might be the first pleasant one in a long time.
Jason Maritz, the Sables manager, is the one behind the new franchise and, in a press statement released, said:
“There has long been a desire to professionalise the game of rugby in Zimbabwe whilst bridging the gap between its successful high school system, club structures and National teams.
“This has led to the birth of Kuva Blue Thunder – Zimbabwe’s first independently owned professional rugby franchise that will participate in competitive international rugby union. KBT will work closely with all existing stakeholders of the sport in Zimbabwe.”
Over two days, a conference to establish the international franchise league was held late last month in Cape Town, South Africa.
South African franchises, Cheetahs, Griquas, Pumas, Spain and Namibia were present at the conference.
Also represented at the meeting were Spain, Italy, Germany, USA and Zimbabwe.
“The objective of the new competition is to provide a pathway to the top table of rugby union by enabling more players and franchises in high potential countries to compete regularly
with quality opposition, raising the game’s competitiveness overall,” said Maritz.
However, the establishment of the International franchise, which is supposed to kick off in December, awaits World Rugby approval.
According to the press statement released by Maritz, Zimbabwe Rugby Union has approved the formation of the KBT franchise.
The rugby community in Zimbabwe awaits the finer details on the parameters that KBT will operate and how they intend to uplift grassroots rugby in the country.
If the proper parameters are not set, the Sables and KBT will end up fishing from the same pond of sponsors.
How do the players stay in shape if KBT is not playing in an international competition?
Is KBT replacing the Goshawks, and whilst it is a private initiative, what will be the selection criteria?
Answers to these questions will probably be revealed in time.
As with most things Zimbabwe rugby, this is just the beginning of months of speculation and heated debates.
