Zimbabwe is gearing up to defend the Barthes Trophy, Africa’s under-20 rugby competition, on home turf in Harare. With the tournament kicking off this Saturday, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Namibia, and Tunisia are set to battle it out for the coveted trophy.

Rugby Africa president, Herbert Mensah, commended the Zimbabwe Rugby Union for their meticulous preparations, expressing expectations for an exhilarating display of rugby. Shaun de Souza, coach of the Young Sables, conveyed confidence in Zimbabwe’s readiness to secure victory, aiming for a third consecutive triumph.

As defending champions, Zimbabwe faces stiff competition from Kenya, whose captain, Edward Omondi, is determined to rectify past shortcomings. The tournament, structured as a round-robin competition, promises intense matches over three days, culminating in the crowning of the Junior African Champions. The victorious team will earn the opportunity to represent the continent at the Junior World Trophy.