Andrew
Online Reporter
GERMANY’s Sevens rugby national team will this year add some international flair to the Zambezi Challenge Sevens’ Tournament, which kicks off at Harare Sports Club this weekend.
Germany’s inclusion is expected to make up for the absence of continental powerhouses South Africa, Kenya and Uganda, which have withdrawn their participation due to either tight schedules or financial constraints.
Speaking at the launch of the tournament on Friday, Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) vice president (North) Losson Mtongwiza expressed regret over withdrawal of the three teams.
He, however, promised an exciting tournament on November 19.
“The Zambezi Challenge is upon us and we are very excited to see it return,” said Mtongwiza.
“It is a tournament we are hosting for the second time, and we are hoping to build on it and make it as big as possible.
“Unfortunately, continental powerhouses like Kenya, Uganda and South Africa have since withdrawn due to a variety of reasons.
“Kenya just participated at the Hong Kong Sevens and couldn’t come straight from that tournament to this one. “Uganda could also not join us after having gone to the Commonwealth and then the World Cup – their budget could not permit yet another tournament.
“The same applies to South Africa,” he said.
Mtongwiza indicated that an equally valuable replacement has since been found in Germany.
“We do have some very talented and exciting teams confirmed for the tournament, and these will be headlined by the Germany Sevens side.
“There are preparing to be part of the core status teams and have grabbed every opportunity that comes their way to play some Sevens rugby.”
In addition to Germany, the other teams confirmed include the Zambia Sevens’ national team, and they will be bringing two additional club sides.
Reigning champions Spartans (also from Zambia) have also been confirmed for the tournament, while Zimbabwe is expected to field two senior sides (Zambezi Cheetahs and Academy side), and an Under-21 side.
Online Reporter