Zimbabwe rugby mourns Sanele Smiley Sibanda

Zimbabwe Rugby Union has announced the death of lock Sanele Smiley Sibanda.

A stalwart in various Sables sides, Smiley is described amiably by many as a gentle giant.

He was part of the Zimbabwe Academy squad that took part in the SuperSport Rugby Challenge in South Africa in 2019.

Smiley played in Rugby World Cup qualifiers (2015), SARU Gold Cup & Africa Cup. He played for Hull Rufc in 2019 and his previous clubs include Old Miltonians, Matabeleland Busters, Durban Harlequins and College Rovers (SA).

Sables manager Jason Maritz said:

On behalf of the Sables Family we would like to extend our deepest sympathies and respect to Sanele’s Family and friends… It’s never easy to say goodbye, it hurts when you cry, but the good Lord has blessed his soul & he now lives with the most High.
Smiley, to say that we are deeply saddened by your untimely passing is an understatement.
None of us will know why you had to leave us so soon, but your friendship will leave a lasting impression on many of our lives.
We, your Sables family thank you for running your race and sharing your story with us.
We will miss you and your big smile…..
Go well Smiley….
Brotherhood🙏🏻
Sablesfamily🇿🇼
Your story is the greatest legacy that you will leave to your friends. It’s the longest-lasting legacy you will leave to your heirs.” —Steve Saint

Said Biselele Tshamala who himself played for Sables and Cheetahs:

Sanele Nkosana Sibanda
‘Smiley’
‘My brother,school mate,play mate, team mate. My Sable. The sad news of your passing was heart wrenching and it tore right to my core. From the Plumtree Kabot Field to the International stadiums we have trudged along together , you were always motivating us to take our game to the next level , ever smiling ever, jovial character. Big hit after big hit you always kept the infectious smile on your face. Ever optimistic in adversity.
You will be sadly missed in the dressing room. Rest easy Bhubesi’
Always a Sable
Biselele Tshamala
Sables and Cheetahs player
Former Plumtree

Said Sables coach Brendon Dawson

Sanele Smiley Sibanda
‘A gentle ferocious rugby giant. Ever smiling unassuming , passionate,humble ,great work ethic, hardworking extremely talented and disciplined player. A vital versatile member of our Sables set up who cemented his position in the team with his aerial ball retention acumen and hard hitting runs and crunching tackles. Sanele was a true embodiment of resurgence of the Sables. He will be sadly missed. Rest easy Gentle Giant Smiley.’
Brendon Ori Dawson
Sables Head Coach

Aaron Jani, the ZRU president added:

“On behalf of the ZRU we are saddened by this sudden loss of Sanele a Distinguished Sable. He will be greatly missed . May his Soul Rest In Peace “
Aaron Jani
ZRU President.

A sad loss indeed.