Nations Cup 2026 round four preview: Zimbabwe v Samoa

Venue: DIY Kitchens Stadium, Wakefield, England
Referee: Matthew Carley (England)

This will be the first-ever meeting between Zimbabwe and Samoa – and the first time the African side have ever played a match in England as Wakefield, West Yorkshire plays host to the historic encounter.

Zimbabwe head coach Pieter Benade has named a strong side as the Sables bid to ignite their Nations Cup campaign after three straight defeats to Tonga, USA and Canada in July.

As Benade’s men continue their preparations towards RWC 2027 in Australia, he has picked a team combining established international experience with players looking to make their mark on the international stage.

Edward Sigauke, who enjoyed an impressive July Nations Cup campaign, scoring against both Tonga and the USA to earn him a move to PREM Rugby side Harlequins in August, starts on the wing.

The starting line-up also features experienced campaigners such as Tinotenda Mavesere, captain Hilton Mudariki, Ian Prior, Kudzai Mashawi and Tapiwa Mafura, who will be expected to provide leadership and direction.

Samoa have named a powerful side with former All Blacks Josh Ioane and Shaun Stevenson set for debuts along with AJ Lam and Chris Gabriel.

Meanwhile, Alamanda Motuga has been drafted onto the bench as a late replacement for another former All Black in Akira Ioane.

Former Wallaby Scott Sio will pack down at prop as the 'Ikale Tahi head into November looking for an improvement on their July record, where they picked up just one win against Hong Kong China.

The fixture will mark a significant test for the Sables as both sides continue their preparations towards Men's Rugby World Cup 2027.