HARARE - After failing to defend their Spar Harare International Sevens at the weekend, Zimbabwe will have to re-group and polish their handling skills and learn to be more clinical if they are to acquire IRB World Sevens Series core-member status and do well at this year’s World Cup.

Gilbert Nyamutsamba's team was found wanting in those aspects in their 12-7 semi-final defeat to the South African Elite Sevens Development team.

They also lacked the x-factor, with the absence of gasman Wes Mbanje clearly being felt.

However, they are some positives that can be drawn from the tournament, mainly the performance of the development side, the Goshawks.

Quite a number of players stood out and can add value to the Cheetahs.

David Cloete, who last played representative rugby for Zimbabwe seven years ago, was impressive for the Goshawks with his 100% success rate kicking for post.

His vision was unbelievable as he unlocked a lot of opponents defence over the two days. Cloete can definitely be asset for the Cheetahs.

Youngsters such as Sean Chigumbura, Teddy “Boxer” Hwata and Shayne Makumbe also put up solid performances for the Goshawks.

Debutants Tapiwa Tsomondo and Stephen Hunduza had decent outings, managing to score on debut.

Meanwhile in a bid to improve the Zimbabwe Sevens team’s fitness levels, former Zimbabwe Schools player Matthew Nesbitt, who is the Pretoria Boys High Strength and Conditioning coach, was impressed by the team’s fitness levels.

 “They have been encouraging signs from the just-ended tournament, the boys were tackling much harder and clearing the rucks efficiently,” Nesbitt said.

“The team is in a much better shape. We just have to keep working hard until we are fully professional.” - Brian Matamba