Aili Iilonga
THE Namibian rugby team head coach Phil Davies has selected his 30-man squad that will represent the country at the upcoming rugby world in Japan.
Davies said that he has hopes that selected players will finally get the country’s first win and cement its name as one of the title contenders in Asia.
Namibia will make its fifth World Cup appearance after qualifying last year via a win in the African gold cup tournament.
Davies made the announcement today, explaining that the team consists of a blend of young and experience players who will strive to get Namibia’s first win at the World cup.
“It was not easy selecting the final 30-man squad and having had many sleepless nights choosing the team. I think the team has a good balance of youth and experience players that have worked hard. They are ready to make Namibia proud,” said the coach.
He reflected on the tough pool that Namibia finds itself with the likes of New Zealand, South Africa, Canada and Italy, saying that it will not be an easy task but insists that the team is ready for the challenge.
Johan Deysel will captain the squad, while Tjiuee Uanivi is vice-captain.
Japan will be Deysel’s second World Cup appearance for Namibia, while Eugene Jantjies will play his fourth. The likes of Andre Rademeyer, Chad Plato, Obert Nortje, Prince !Gaoseb and Cliven Loubser, will all make their debut at World Cup.
Namibia will face Isuzu Southern Kings in their second leg clash this weekend in Walvis Bay before their departure for Japan on 12 September.
Namibia Squad for 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan:
Forwards
Andre Rademeyer
Nelius Theron
Desiderius Sethie
A J de Klerk
Johannes Coetzee
Obert Nortje
Louis van der Westhuizen
Torsten van Jaarsveld
Tjiuee Uanivi
Johan Retief
Thomasau Forbes
Rohan Kitshoff
Max Katjijeko
Prince !Gaoseb
Wian Conradie
P J van Lill
Adriaan Booysen
Janco Venter
Backs
Cliven Loubser
Helarius Kisting
Damian Stevens
Eugene Jantjies
Darryl de la Harpe
Johan Deysel
Justin Newman
J C Greyling
Johann Tromp
Chad Plato
Lesley Klim
Janry du Toit
P J Walters
