The Sunday Mail
Tinashe Kusema
A TOP International Rugby Board official is expected this week to check on Zimbabwe’s preparations to host the Under-20 Rugby Trophy.
Simon Kibble, the IRB’s competitions operations manager, is expected in Harare on Tuesday for a two-day visit which will culminate in him passing a verdict on the country’s state of preparedness.
The tournament, slated for April 19 to May 1, will see Zimbabwe host Uruguay, Hong Kong, Spain, Fiji, Western Samoa, the US and Namibia.
A fortnight ago, Zimbabwe played host to top South African sides Vodacom Bulls and Toyota Cheetahs.
Zimbabwe Rugby Union general manager Sifiso Made said: “We are living in very interesting times for the sport of rugby. As you might be aware, this is the first time that Zimbabwe has been selected to host such a huge event, and this year’s edition will only be the second time that the tournament will have been held in Africa.
“We have done our part in laying the ground work for the tournament and are currently in talks with a few prospective sponsors who have shown interest to come on board and help make this the best edition yet.
“The most important part of our preparations will be when World Rugby’s envoy Mr Kibble arrives to assess our progress and offer expertise in such areas as service provision, security, hotel and catering.
“The IRB will finance the visiting team’s accommodation and upkeep for the duration of the tournament, and as such the envoy’s main prerogative will be to look into these areas.”
Made said games would be played at Harare Sports Club and the National Sports Stadium.
“The National Sports Stadium recently successfully hosted the Zimbabwe Champions Cup clash between the Vodacom Bulls and the Toyota Cheetahs.
“That said, Harare Sports Club remains our Plan A but we have been contemplating moving at least one of the clashes, specifically the final, to the stadium.
“We have been crunching the numbers, working out the logistics and plan to bring it up during the meeting with the world rugby representative,” he said.
Kibble is expected to meet Sports and Recreation Minister Makhosini Hlongwane.
