Defending champions Namibia are determined to make history as they prepare to defend their Rugby Africa U20 Barthes Trophy title in Kampala, Uganda, from 7–15 August, with the Junior Welwitschias aiming to become the tournament's most successful nation in the modern era. After capturing their third Barthes Trophy in Zimbabwe in 2025—drawing level with Kenya on three titles—the Namibians now have the opportunity to stand alone atop the competition's honours list. Head coach Christiaan Zaayman has kept last year's trophy beside the training field throughout preparations in Windhoek as a constant reminder of the standard required to retain the title. Returning scrum-half Dominique Isaacs, one of the heroes of last year's triumph, summed up the team's ambition, declaring, "We want to build on what we achieved last year, represent Namibia with pride and bring the trophy home again."
The championship victory in Zimbabwe marked a breakthrough for Namibia after years of falling short away from home, instilling confidence and resilience in a squad eager to repeat its success on foreign soil. Isaacs believes those experiences have strengthened the team both on and off the field, preparing them for another demanding campaign in Uganda. Competing alongside Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Tunisia in the Performance Division, with Uganda and Zambia contesting the First Division, Namibia enters the tournament knowing every match brings them one step closer to history. Should the Junior Welwitschias successfully defend their crown, they will cement their place as the dominant force in African Under-20 rugby while reinforcing the bright future of Namibian rugby on the continental stage.
Add comment
Comments