Zimbabwe Gears Up to Host the 2025 U20 Barthes Tro...

Zimbabwe Gears Up to Host the 2025 U20 Barthes Trophy at Old Hararians Sports Club

Patience Muchemwa

Senior Reporter

Zimbabwe is proudly stepping into the spotlight of African youth rugby as it hosts the 2025 U20 Barthes Trophy at the historic Old Hararians Sports Club in Harare. The tournament, which showcases the best under-20 rugby talent from across the continent, kicks off today, April 19, with a thrilling opening match between hosts Zimbabwe and their Southern African rivals Namibia. Kickoff is scheduled for 15:00 CAT.

This year’s tournament marks a shift from the previous venue, Harare Sports Club, which hosted the 2024 edition. The move to Old Hararians underscores Zimbabwe’s continued commitment to growing rugby infrastructure and offering players, fans, and officials an exciting atmosphere in the heart of the capital.

The U20 Barthes Trophy, organized by Rugby Africa, is the premier age-grade rugby tournament for African nations and plays a crucial role in the development of future rugby stars on the continent. The winner of the tournament earns a coveted spot in the World Rugby U20 Trophy — an opportunity to compete on the global stage.

In 2024, Kenya clinched the championship after a dominant performance at Harare Sports Club, edging out strong competitors from across the region. With the 2025 edition now underway, Zimbabwe is eyeing a title run on home soil, starting with their crucial clash against Namibia.

Zimbabwe Rugby Union CEO Sifiso Made expressed his pride in Zimbabwe being selected to host this year’s prestigious event. He said it was an incredible honour for the nation and a significant milestone for the sport’s development locally.

“It is an honour for Zimbabwe to get the opportunity to host this year’s edition,” said Made. “We are excited not only to showcase our hospitality and love for the game but also to inspire a new generation of Zimbabwean rugby players by bringing the action to their doorstep.”

The Zimbabwean U20 side, known as the Junior Sables, has shown steady growth in recent years, and with the support of a home crowd, expectations are high for a strong showing this year.

Hosting the Barthes Trophy is part of a broader push by Zimbabwe Rugby Union to elevate the game at grassroots and elite levels. The tournament will bring attention to youth rugby, encourage investment in sports development, and serve as a platform for talent scouts and coaches to identify future stars.

The Old Hararians Sports Club, with its rich rugby heritage, is primed for the event. Known for its passionate supporters and rugby-loving atmosphere, the venue is expected to be a cauldron of excitement throughout the tournament.