The Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) announced on Saturday the dates for the Welwitschias’ upcoming friendly matches against Uganda and Italy. These games are part of preparations for the 2027 World Cup qualifiers, which will take place in Kampala, Uganda, later this year. 

“These friendlies are part of our plan to give local and international players a chance to prepare for the highly anticipated World Cup qualifiers that will take place in Uganda,” said John Heynes, the association’s chief executive officer.

Namibia will play Uganda on 14 June, followed by a match against Airlink Pumas on 21 June. Additionally, the Welwitschias will also play an international Test match against Italy.

“Preparations have been ongoing since last year, and we have not stopped. The upcoming games are part of our long-term strategy, and I think the boys have been doing well as they have remained focused,” Heynes said.

South Africa will host several international teams for their scheduled Test series in July, which includes Italy. Heynes says the union has taken advantage of Italy’s presence in South Africa to secure the match against them. 

Namibia has competed in seven Rugby World Cup tournaments, having qualified as the African representative. The Welwitschias made their first appearance at the Rugby World Cup in 1999 and appeared at the subsequent six tournaments. 

Welwitschias best match result was in 2015 when they lost to Georgia by a single point, with a 16-17 score. Namibia’s worst match result was in 2003 when they lost 142-0 to Australia, which also set the record for the biggest winning margin.

mkambukwe@nepc.com.na