Following a rather very sad incident that almost saw players boycott Kenya a fortnight ago in an Africa Cup opener, Sables captain Denford Mutamangira says they have mended bridges with the Zimbabwe Rugby Union.

Of course it was about money and the players were not determined when they finally agreed to take to the pitch – an embarrassing 61-15 loss reflecting there was more to it than lack of adequate preparation.

A couple of days’ camp, player apathy and lack of faith by the players to the ZRU were all compounding issues.

But on Friday morning, Mutamangira reflected the players are slowly regaining the trust of the ZRU – something that has seen Zimbabwe put together their strongest team since playing Tunisia exactly a year ago.

“We have been very positive compared to the previous game. Of course we had issues but that is work in progress and we as players have a reputation to protect, we have a brand to protect which is the Sables and like what the coach said it has been positive as most of the guys were in by Sunday,” said the prop.

In order to remain as one of the three best rugby playing nations in Africa, Zimbabwe have to make sure they make a meal of the Uganda Cranes.

“We are very aware that we must win and this is where the positive energy is coming from. We do not know what is in Group 1B and we don’t want to go there so we have to win this game at all costs.”