Zimbabwean referee, Precious Pazani, has set a new benchmark in her career by being selected to officiate at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Pazani as she continues to make waves in the world of rugby officiating.
Pazani’s selection for the prestigious event has been met with widespread praise, particularly from her mentor Mudiwa Mundawarara, who serves as the Referees Manager for Rugby Africa. The 34-year-old official from Harare has been making history throughout her career. Earlier this year, she became the first African referee outside of South Africa to officiate a match in the Women’s Six Nations tournament, where she took charge of England’s game against Italy in York.
Now, Pazani is poised to serve as a reserve assistant referee at the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup scheduled from August 22nd to September 27th. The announcement of the officiating panel by World Rugby included 10 referees, six assistant referees, and six television match officials (TMOs) for the tournament.
Mundawarara applauded Pazani’s groundbreaking achievement, highlighting its significance not only for her but also for African rugby on the whole. Speaking to Rugby Africa Media, he expressed his pride in Pazani’s dedication and hard work that led to this historic moment.
In an industry traditionally dominated by certain regions, Pazani’s presence as a non-South African African official at such high-profile events is crucial for promoting diversity and inclusivity in rugby officiating globally.
According to reports from Joy Online, Alhambra Nievas, World Rugby’s Women’s High Performance Referee Manager, commended the depth and experience of this year’s selected officials’ team. She emphasized that it is the strongest and most experienced group ever chosen for a Women’s Rugby World Cup.
“Precious has worked very hard for this,”
said Mundawarara about Pazani’s remarkable feat.
“This is a huge step for Rugby Africa – the first of many we hope!”
Before her debut at the Six Nations tournament earlier this year, Pazani had shared her aspirations of officiating at the World Cup during an interview with a Zimbabwean publication. Expressing her hopes and dreams regarding this opportunity showcased her determination and commitment towards reaching the pinnacle of her career.
“If I were to be selected [for the World Cup], it would be a huge milestone in my career,”
remarked Pazani during an interview before her selection was announced.
“Having seen where I started from and where I’ve gotten to—it would be amazing.”
As reported by Joy Online, two more African officials will join Pazani at the Women’s Rugby World Cup: Aimee Barrett-Theron from South Africa who is one of appointed referees and Quinton Immelman who will serve as Television Match Official (TMO). Their inclusion further enriches Africa’s representation on this esteemed global platform alongside their colleague Precious Pazani.
The blend of seasoned expertise along with fresh talent among this year’s officials promises an exciting tournament ahead while underlining progress and inclusivity within women’s rugby officiating worldwide.
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