Ian Prior: ‘Harlequins will suit Eddie’s style and skill set’

By Enock Muchinjo

HARARE – Zimbabwe star flyhalf Ian Prior reckons his former English Premiership club Harlequins provides the perfect setting for his international colleague Edward Sigauke to shine on his introduction to professional rugby.

The London club signed the 22-year-old speedy Zimbabwe winger last week after a blazing start to his international career, in which he has scored eight tries in 12 Tests for the World Cup-bound Sables since his debut at the Africa Cup in Uganda in 2024.

“Harlequins are renowned for the way they use the ball in the Premiership,” veteran Sables flyhalf Prior told SportsCast on Tuesday.

 “They are known for expansive and exciting rugby; this will suit Eddie’s style and skill set. I can’t wait to see him work with the likes of Marcus Smith (the club’s English flyhalf).”

Australia-born Prior himself made five appearances for Harlequins on a short-term contract during the 2017-18 season, and has revealed his role in the completion of Sigauke’s two-year deal at the Quins.

“I was lucky enough to be asked to help facilitate discussions that happened between Eddie and the club,” Prior said.

“It was awesome to see them fly over while we were at the (World Rugby) Nations Cup (in the United States and Canada in July) to discuss potential opportunities with him. It shows just how highly regarded he is in their eyes.”

Sigauke becomes the second current Zimbabwe international in the Gallagher Premiership alongside Northampton Saints prop Cleopas Kundiona, and the fourth Sable in top two competitions of the English professional rugby system.

Zimbabwe backs Matt McNab and Bruce Houston play for Coventry in the Championship, England’s second-tier rugby union competition.

“It’s a great representation of the talent that Zimbabwe has and the pathway that the Sables presents for players to expand their horizons to all professional competitions around the world,” commented Prior.

“It shows that the skill set, talent and work ethic is there and players just need an opportunity. Hopefully they are the first of many!”

It now means Zimbabwe will have four of their regulars in familiar conditions when the Sables return to Nations Cup duty in the UK in November – where they will face Samoa, Chile and Uruguay.

⁠”Looking forward to the next part of the Nations Cup, we will be better prepared for the demands of the games and the competition itself,” said Prior.

“We played some great rugby in July and will be looking to be more consistent for longer throughout the games. Executing our skills under pressure consistently is what is required at the international top level. It will be a great challenge to play in European conditions in November.”

Edward Sigauke during a practice session with Harlequins this week.