Story by Raynald Ngwarati
ZIMBABWE Under-20 Rugby team have been given a tough task in their 2025 Rugby Africa Barthes Cup pursuit.
This comes after the Junior Sables stuttered in their first challenge of the Cup, succumbing to regional rivals Namibia in an action-packed encounter.
The lads had a slow start, being made to trail in the early exchanges, as Namibia drew first blood at the expense of the hosts to signal their intentions in the battle.
The Junior Sables had to launch an explosive comeback in the second half after trailing 5-27 at the break.
An all-round display from the Junior Sables after the restart withheld much possession and momentum from Namibia, scoring three unconverted tries in the process to cut the deficit to 22-27.
The Namibians however, found their first-half rhythm in the closing stages as they caught a late second breath for two more tries in the 70th and 73rd minute.
The tries left the Young Sables unresponsive as the match ended 41-22 in favour of Namibia who will date title holders Kenya U20 in their second match on Wednesday.
The Junior Sables will clash with Tunisia on the same day, seeking a victory to keep their title hopes alive.
It will not be an easy task as Tunisia are also seeking a rebound after losing to Kenya 29-21 in their first match this Saturday at the same venue.
