adminFrom Paul Munyuki in NELSPRUIT, South Africa
THE Zimbabwe Under-19 rugby side find themselves in a rather unfamiliar position this afternoon when they take on Madagascar in a basement battle in the Junior Africa Cup tournament that also doubles up as the Junior World Rugby Trophy qualifier.
Having lost 20-22 to Kenya in the first semi-final of the four team youth tournament on Tuesday here at the Mbombela Stadium, the Young Sables are faced with the task of fighting relegation as they avoid being dropped to Group 1B.
Captain Alva Senderai knows the challenge that is ahead and his side cannot afford defeat while team manager Blessing “Bhuru” Chiutare believes they are ready for the relegation battle.
If Zimbabwe lose this game then they will not have a chance to try and qualify for the 2015 edition of the JWRT.
“We are positive and we have to play and win. We had a chance to watch Madagascar play, we trained hard and we also noticed that they are fast and they move the ball a lot so we have to starve them of the ball,” said Senderayi.
The Young Sables had a mid morning training session at Nelspruit High School yesterday and the technical team led by coach Nsikelelo “Sykes” Sibanda were expected to name their starting XV late with selection depending on medical results.
Online Reporter
derick.khumalo