African junior rugby features a fierce three-way battle between Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Namibia. The Barthes Trophy starts today at Old Hararians Sports Club, where these teams will compete again. These three nations have dominated the competition since it began in 2017. Zimbabwe and Namibia each won twice, with Kenya claiming three victories. They also led before the name change, when it was called the Division A Tournament from 2006 to 2016, with Namibia winning seven times.
Today, Kenya plays Tunisia, and Zimbabwe faces Namibia in exciting matches. Zimbabwe captain Emmanuel Gabi says his team wants to win everything. They aim to compete strongly with both backs and forwards to reclaim the trophy. Last year, Zimbabwe entered as favorites after winning in 2022 and 2023, but Kenya beat them 28-13 in the final. Gabi believes his team has moved past that loss.
Zimbabwe feels better prepared both mentally and physically this time around. The Zimbabwe-Namibia match represents a major rivalry that will be very intense. Gabi supports his teammates to succeed against both Namibia today and Kenya later in the tournament. He believes they simply need to stay focused and work hard throughout the competition.
Today, Kenya plays Tunisia, and Zimbabwe faces Namibia in exciting matches. Zimbabwe captain Emmanuel Gabi says his team wants to win everything. They aim to compete strongly with both backs and forwards to reclaim the trophy. Last year, Zimbabwe entered as favorites after winning in 2022 and 2023, but Kenya beat them 28-13 in the final. Gabi believes his team has moved past that loss.
Zimbabwe feels better prepared both mentally and physically this time around. The Zimbabwe-Namibia match represents a major rivalry that will be very intense. Gabi supports his teammates to succeed against both Namibia today and Kenya later in the tournament. He believes they simply need to stay focused and work hard throughout the competition.
