Kenya to host Africa Under-20 Rugby championship

Kenya is set to host Africa Under-20 Rugby championship, also known as Barthez Cup, from March 25 to April 4 in Nairobi. 

The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic resulted in the cancelation of the event last year as it was slated for March. 

The successful event in 2019 built a great foundation for the country to host it for the next three years. 

The winner will qualify for the Junior Rugby World Trophy scheduled in September at a venue yet to be announced. 

In the last edition, the Kenya team popularly known as Chipu won, beating powerhouses Namibia 21-18 in the final to qualify for the Junior Rugby World Trophy in Brazil. Chipu finished fifth in the tournament.

According to Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) chairman, Oduor Gangla, the composition of the squad will be revealed this month. 

He also expressed confidence in the selected players, saying that they can do the country proud and qualify for the world event.

Gangla stated, “We want to have consistency in that event and qualify for the world show again  while at the same time building a platform for youngsters who can graduate to the senior in the years to come.”

From the 2019 squad, only four players are eligible for selection for this year's event. They include George Kiriazi, Owain Ashley, Mureiithi Mwiti and Lorence Ishuga.