CHIMP SPORT: Junior Rugby Cranes meet Zimbabwe in Key Performance Division Test

Uganda vs Zimbabwe
Saturday, August 15 | 4:00pm
Mutesa II Memorial Stadium, Wankulukuku

The Junior Rugby Cranes will face Zimbabwe in a crucial international test match on Saturday, August 15, at Mutesa II Memorial Stadium, Wankulukuku, as they begin preparations for next year’s Rugby Africa U20 Barthes Cup Performance Division.

Uganda secured promotion to the elite division after winning the 2026 Barthes Cup Division I title, defeating Zambia 81-0 in the opening fixture before completing the job with a 27-12 victory in the return leg.

However, the triumph did not provide the team with the stern examination they had hoped for, as Zambia were unable to field a fully competitive front row, resulting in uncontested scrums throughout the two matches.

Head coach Martial Tchumkam believes the Zimbabwe test will provide the ideal opportunity to assess his forwards, particularly the front row, against stronger opposition.

“The matches against Zambia did not allow us to properly evaluate our front row because there were no contested scrums. Playing Zimbabwe will give us a much better indication of where we stand and what we need to improve ahead of the Performance Division,” Tchumkam said.

He added that such high-level international fixtures are essential for the development of Uganda’s young players, exposing them to tougher competition and helping produce quality talent capable of strengthening the senior national team in the future.

The 2027 Barthes Cup Performance Division is expected to feature six teams: Uganda, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Zambia, Tunisia and defending champions Kenya.