By Trevor Makonyonga
It is a sad day for Zimbabwe Rugby as the national team forward Sanele ‘Smiley’ Sibanda passed away on May Day.
Sibanda was involved in a car accident.
The news was announced by ZRU and the family of the 29-year-old lock.
ZRU tweeted, “The Zimbabwe Rugby Union is sad to announce the sad passing of Sanele Smiley Sibanda a Sable’s stalwart. Rest in peace our Gentle giant.”
The forward’s brother Libone Lee Sibanda also posted on Facebook.
“It is with the deepest sadness and sorrow to inform you of the untimely passing of our beloved Sanele Nkosana Sibanda. Sanele, affectionately known as Smiley, sadly passed away on the 1st of May due to a car accident. It has left us all devastated and shattered. Its almost hard to even believe, hard to think that we won’t see him again at least in this lifetime. He has left a void that no one could ever replace. Life won’t be the same without you brother. You warmed our hearts and everyone who you encountered. You made us so proud with your countless achievements. You hung your boots for the final time. We will miss you, Sani. Rest well, until we meet again.”
Sable’s teammate, Bisele Tshamala extended his condolences describing the late as a ‘jovial’ character.
Tshamala said, “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.”
