Why Chipu will have to leave a mark at the 2023 Barthes Trophy

RUGBY Why Chipu will have to leave a mark at the 2023 Barthes Trophy

Abigael Wafula 16:30 - 15.04.2023

The tournament is scheduled for April 22 to 30 at the Nyayo National Stadium.

Kenya men's rugby Under-20 side, Chipu strength and conditioning coach Motto Williams noted that the team has no choice but to impress at the 2023 Barthes Trophy slated for April 22 to 30 at the Nyayo National Stadium.

Williams revealed that they have had around eight weeks of preparation and believes the young team comprising of experienced and amateur players will emerge victorious on home soil. 

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“On my part as the strength and conditioning coach, I have worked with the rest of the technical bench very closely and tirelessly. We have had adequate time to prepare and the fitness levels of our players should be about 75% to 85%.

I believe the boys will be ready to represent the Kenyan jersey in a presentable manner. We are not only representing the Kenya Rugby Union but also the country as a whole,” Williams told K24.

It will not be a walk in the park for the youngsters as there are only four returnees including Captain Laban Kipsang of Kenya Harlequins, club-mate Dave Mwangi, Mwamba’s Felix Chacha, and Strathmore Leos’ Stanslous Shikoli.

However, Williams added that most of the other players have played for the local clubs and they will not be green but they might be under the pump as they will be competing on the big stage for the first time.

“We cannot say that we haven’t prepared enough…the boys are now ready in terms of conditioning and mental mindset. The teams coming here are coming to compete and we will take every game as a final,” he said.

Representing the country will be an uphill task but Williams believes that by D-day, everything will be set.

Meanwhile, Chipu captain Laban Kipsang is bubbling with confidence ahead of the event and has revealed that the mood around the camp is promising.

Despite beating Uganda 54-20 in the previous edition, Kipsang has acknowledged them to be a worthy opponent and noted that they will not take it easy on them.

“We can’t look down upon them because I’m sure they went back into training and will be coming back stronger. We will give our best shot and I believe we have all it takes to win the tournament. Our fans should also come and support us,” he said.