Barthes Cup 2024

Chipu chase second Barthes Cup win against Tunisia in Harare

Chipu held off a fighting Namibia 36-28 in their opening match over the weekend.

In Summary

•Kenya led 23-6 at one point before the former champions rallied to within a point at 29-28 before a last-minute try sealed the win for Simon Jawichre's charges.

• The tournament winner will represent Africa at the World Rugby U20 Trophy in Scotland between July 2-17.

Action between Kenya and Namibia
Action between Kenya and Namibia
Image: HANDOUT

The national Under 20 rugby team will chase a second Barthes Cup win when they face Tunisia on Wednesday in Harare.

Chipu held off a fighting Namibia 36-28 in their opening match over the weekend.

Kenya led 23-6 at one point before the former champions rallied to within a point at 29-28 before a last-minute try sealed the win for Simon Jawichre's charges.

Speaking on Tuesday, Jawichre expects improvement in certain aspects of their game.

"We are tasking the leadership to keep the psyche up and to ensure we play on the front foot. We’re not changing the game plan, just tightening the loose ends,” said Jawichre.

"The game against Namibia was a grind and depicts the challenges we have had in preparations. Our advantage is that the boys are positive and confident, albeit we must keep streamlining our set pieces and defence set-up. It was our first match this year. We never even had a friendly match.”

The Catholic University Monks coach will rotate his side with the tough showdown against hosts and champions Zimbabwe looming on Saturday.

Brian Shile, Ian Nyandusi and Hafiddh Mohammed start in the front row.

The towering AndyCole Omollo and Eugene Etale start in the second row while Edmond Omondi, Nathan Tsindoli and Benedict Muiruri are in the back row.

In the backs, Patrick Wainaina and Jackson Siketi will continue with their partnership in the half-back combinations while Michael Wamalwa and Daniel Kipchirchir start in midfield.

Alvin Khavoli, James Olela and Eugene Ojiambo form the back three.

Jawichre was expecting a stern test from Tunisia, who lost their opening match 46-21 to Zimbabwe on Saturday.

"They are a good side and will want to bounce back from Saturday's defeat. Our boys must be well prepared and ready to face them,” added Jawichre. The match will kick off at 3 pm.

Hosts and champions Zimbabwe will face Namibia.

The tournament winner will represent Africa at the World Rugby U20 Trophy in Scotland between July 2-17.