De Souza back in the lab

Deputy Sports Editor

JUNIOR Sables coach Shaun De Souza is not worried about the Junior World Trophy being hosted in Kenya, especially at Nyayo Stadium.

In fact, the choice of host nation and venue, which was announced prior to last weekend’s Barthes Trophy, is a blessing in disguise. “I feel fortunate that the Junior World Trophy is being held in Kenya,” said De Souza.

“We have now played there twice. We are now familiar with the conditions and surroundings, and, more importantly, we have built a somewhat good relationship with Kenya on and off the field.

“Our brotherhood, as teams, is likely going to bind us in this event, as we are going to be the two African nations.

“I am sure the Kenyans are going to come and rally behind Zimbabwe, as they also support their team, as we have won over their hearts during the two Barthes Trophy finals we competed in over the last two years.”

The Junior World Trophy has been pencilled in for July 15-30.

Zimbabwe qualified by defeating Kenya 28-7 in the Barthes Trophy final.

By virtue of being hosts, Kenya had already punched their ticket to the global showcase.  After the final, the two teams, in the true spirit of Ubuntu, jointly celebrated at the hotel.

“We celebrated as a team . . . All our supporters came in and joined us.

“It was a good moment for the team and supporters, especially those who had also been with us during last year’s edition,” added De Souza.

The team received the same reception when they returned home.

“The response from the rugby community, both local and foreign, has been fantastic. It has actually been overwhelming at times.

“Congratulatory messages have been coming in from all corners — from the local fans, rugby community and even the Kenya Rugby Union.

“They were full of praise for the manner in which we played,” he said.

It was also a moment to savour his storied rugby achievements.

“This achievement is phenomenal . . . I am over the moon at what my boys managed to do in Kenya.

“It obviously exceeds any of the achievements I might have had as a player or coach, as it is the height of a Zimbabwean coach to have a double at this level.

“I am honoured to have conquered this quest and now look forward to the Junior World Trophy.”

Zimbabwe will open the tournament with a date against Scotland on July 15.

Although Scotland were demoted from the top-tier World Under-20 Championships, De Souza is not underestimating them.

“We start our campaign with a game against Scotland (July 15), and they are a tough six-nation team.

“They played already, earlier this year, and we have had an eye on them (Scotland) and every team in the Junior World Trophy.

“Footage is scarce but we are doing our best to try and strategise for them all,” he said.