NEDBANK Zimbabwe’s U20 rugby team, the Young Sables, secured a nail-biting 35-23 victory over Namibia on Wednesday in the Rugby Africa Barthes Trophy at Harare Sports Club.
This vital victory paves the way for a decisive match against Kenya, where the winner takes all on Sunday at the same venue. Kenya also won their earlier match against Tunisia.
The Young Sables faced an early setback when Namibia scored a try to take a 5-0 lead. However, the team’s co-captains, Tawananyasha Bwanya and Benoni Nhekairo, rallied the team with a try and conversion, respectively, to take the lead. Co-vice captain Edward Sigauke added another try, and Nhekairo’s conversion put Zimbabwe ahead 14-5.
The teams traded penalties, with Zimbabwe leading 17-11 at halftime. The Young Sables came out strong in the second half, scoring a quick try and conversion to extend their lead. Namibia fought back with a converted try, but Zimbabwe’s Shammah Jackson scored a crucial try late in the game to seal the win.
The victory was made possible partly by the support of National Foods Limited, which recently donated $25,000 to the Junior Sables through their Nutri-Active brand. The sponsorship has had a significant impact on the team.
“By investing in youth sports, National Foods contributes to the overall development of rugby in Zimbabwe and encourages aspiring young athletes to pursue their passion,” National Foods Limited stated.
” The sponsorship by National Foods Limited has had a profound impact on the Zimbabwe Junior Sables Rugby team. It has provided them with the means to compete at the highest level while instilling a sense of pride and unity within the team. By investing in youth sports, National Foods contributes to the overall development of rugby in Zimbabwe and encourages aspiring young athletes to pursue their passion.”
” It is anticipated that Nutri-Active will continue to play a pivotal role in the growth and success of the Zimbabwe Junior Sables Rugby team. Their ongoing support and commitment to nurturing young talent exemplify their dedication to Zimbabwe’s local community and sports development.”
