Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
FORMER Zimbabwe Rugby Union vice-president Martin Shone believes the Junior Sables have what it takes to overcome Kenya in today’s eagerly anticipated Barthés Trophy semi-final in Kampala, Uganda, insisting Zimbabwe’s superior junior development structures will ultimately prove the difference.
The two sides renew a rivalry that has quickly become one of African junior rugby’s fiercest, with Kenya having enjoyed the upper hand in recent meetings. The East Africans ended Zimbabwe’s reign as Barthés Trophy champions with victory in the 2024 final before following it up with another win on Zimbabwean soil.
However, Shone believes those results count for little once the players step onto neutral ground at the Mutesa II Stadium, where a place in Tuesday’s final will be at stake.
“I have every confidence that this Junior Sables side can get the job done. Kenya are a quality outfit and deserve respect, but Zimbabwe has consistently invested in junior rugby over many years and that gives us a stronger foundation,” said Shone.
“Our schools’ rugby system continues to produce talented players year after year and that conveyor belt is one of the strongest on the continent. These boys have grown up playing competitive rugby from a young age and understand what it means to wear the Zimbabwe jersey. I believe that depth and culture will carry us through.”
Today’s clash opens the newly revamped Barthés Trophy, which is being played under Rugby Africa’s split-tier format.
Zimbabwe, Kenya, defending champions Namibia and Tunisia make up the elite Performance Division, with the winners of today’s semi-finals advancing to the championship final.
While Kenya have retained the bulk of the squad that defeated Zimbabwe in recent encounters, the Junior Sables arrive in Uganda with a largely rebuilt side following the departure of several players from last year’s squad.
Despite the changes in personnel, Zimbabwe have enjoyed thorough preparations and will be determined to reclaim the continental title they surrendered two years ago.
Shone believes the fresh faces in the squad should be viewed as an advantage rather than a weakness.
“People speak about Kenya’s continuity, but every generation writes its own story. These youngsters are hungry to prove themselves and they have earned the opportunity to represent the country,” he said.
“What has impressed me over the years is Zimbabwe’s ability to keep producing quality players. The structures are there, the coaching pathways are improving and our schools continue to play a massive role in developing talent.
That is why I believe Zimbabwe remains one of the strongest junior rugby nations in Africa.”
Victory today would not only book Zimbabwe a place in the final but also go some way towards settling the score after successive defeats to Kenya, while reaffirming the country’s standing among Africa’s rugby heavyweights.
The winners of today’s encounter will meet either defending champions Namibia or Tunisia in the tournament final, with the ultimate prize extending beyond continental honours. Success at the Barthés Trophy also strengthens a nation’s standing on the international stage and underlines the importance of sustained investment in youth development.
For the Junior Sables, today’s assignment presents an opportunity to show that another talented generation is ready to uphold Zimbabwe’s proud rugby tradition. If Shone’s prediction proves correct, the road back to the top of African junior rugby could begin with a statement victory over their biggest rivals.
