Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ORGANISERS of one of Zimbabwe’s premier schoolboy rugby tournaments, the Milton Rugby Festival, have confirmed the dates for next year’s edition of the event. The 2026 festival is scheduled for April 3 and 4, with the venue yet to be finalised.
Previous tournaments have been held at Hartsfield Rugby Grounds, the city’s ceremonial home of rugby.
The festival will once again attract the country’s leading rugby schools, alongside invited teams from Botswana and Zambia, all competing for regional bragging rights.
In a circular inviting schools to participate, Milton High School headmaster Similo Ncube said the festival was designed to give players early match experience ahead of the official school season.
“The objective of the tournament is to provide valuable game time ahead of the official season, helping players sharpen their skills, build confidence, and foster camaraderie across schools and borders. We would be honoured to have your teams take part in this exciting event. We look forward to welcoming you to Bulawayo and to another memorable Milton Rugby Festival,” said Ncube.
Participating schools have until November 28 to confirm their attendance, after which fixtures and logistics will be finalised. Once confirmations are received, organisers will circulate all tournament requirements.
The competition will feature two age groups: Under-20 (boys and girls) and Under-16 (boys). This follows the success of this year’s event, which was the first to include girls’ teams — adding fresh excitement and competitiveness to the festival.
In 2025, hosts Milton High’s Elephants impressed their home fans, winning both matches. They defeated Goromonzi High School 22–12 before edging Allan Wilson 13–11 in a thrilling main encounter. — @brandon_malvin
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