TEST RUGBY AHEAD: Sunday 21 June

21.06.2015
Spain v Namibia in Bucharest (Nations Cup)
Argentina XV v Romania in Bucharest (Nations Cup)
Georgia v Emerging Ireland in Tbilisi (Tbilisi Cup)
Uruguay v Emerging Italy in Tbilisi (Tbilisi Cup)
Zambia v Nigeria in Lusaka (Africa Cup, 1C)

TEST RUGBY RESULTS: 20 June

Regret I am unable to cover test rugby this weekend due to other commitments

20.06.2015
Argentina v French Barbarians in Rosario (Non test)-To be played
Uganda 30, Kenya ‘A’ 25 in Kampala (Elgon Cup)
Mauritius 39, Reunion 10 in Curepipe

Briefly
Uganda won the Elgon Cup for 2015 by an aggregate of 47-45. If Uganda wins Africa Cup 1B and gets promoted to 1A they would play the Kenya first team.

FIJI TRAINING SQUAD

Preparing for the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Training camp in Suva followed by games against New Zealand Maori and the Pacific Nations Cup.

FLYING FIJIANS REG 9 CAMP July 1-4, Suva
	PROPS	Club
1	Leeroy Atalifo	Fiji Warriors
2	Isei Colati	Nevers, France
3	Taniela Koroi	Wellington, NZ
4	Campese Ma’afu	Pays d’Aix, FR
5	Peni Ravai	Fiji Warriors
6	Manasa Saulo	Timisoara Saracens, Romania
7	Joeli Veitayaki	Fiji Warriors
	HOOKERS
8	Sunia  Koto	Narbonne, FR
9	Jale Sassen	Fiji Warriors
10	Tuapati Talemaitoga	Pays d’Aix, FR
11	Villiame Veikoso	Doncaster, England
	LOCKS
12	Tevita  Cavubati	Ospreys, Wales
13	Apisai  Naikatini	Agen, FR
14	Leone Nakarawa	Glasgow, Scotland
15	Api Ratuniyarawa	Agen, FR
16	Save Tabakanalagi	Fiji Warriors
	BACKROW
17	Johnny Dyer	Fiji Warriors
18	Masi Matadigo	Lyon, FR
19	Akapusi Qera	Montpellier, FR
20	Malakai Ravulo	CSA Steaua Bucurest; Romania
21	Nemia Soqeta	Barrittz, FR
22	Dominiko Waqaniburotu	Brive, FR
	HALFBACKS
23	Nemia Kenatale	CSA Steaua Bucharest; Romania
24	Nikola Matawalu	Bath, ENG
25	Henry Seniloli	Treviso, IT
26	Serupepeli Vularika	Fiji Warriors
	INSIDE BACKS
27	Lepani Botia	La Rochelle, FR
28	Gabby Lovobalavu	Bayonne, FR
29	Josh Matevesi	Ospreys, Wales
30	Jonetani Ralulu
	OUTSIDE BACKS
31	Adriu Delai	Mont de Marsan, FR
32	Vereniki Goneva	Leicester, ENG
33	Benidito Masilevu	Brive, FR
34	Kini Murimurivalu	La Rochelle, FR
35	Nemani Nadolo	Crusaders, NZ
36	Savenaca Rawaca	Fiji 7s
37	John Stewart	Fiji Warriors
38	Metuisela Talebula	Begles-Bordeaux, FR
39	Asaeli Tikoirotuma	London Irish, ENG
40	Watisoni Votu	Pau, France
	Not considered for this camp	Reason
	Seremia Bai	UK Visa
	Timoci Nagusa	Injured
	Taqele Naiyaravoro	Super Rugby finals
	Napolioni Nalaga	Top 14 Final (13 June 2015)
	Waisea Nayacalevu	Top 14 Final (13 June 2015)
	Netani Talei	UK Visa
	Ben Volavola	Super Rugby finals
	Peceli Yato	Top 14 Final (13 June 2015)

Head Coach: John McKee

http://www.fijirugby.com/news/mckee-names-squad-for-reg-9-camp/

TBILISI CUP

17.06.2015
Uruguay v Emerging Ireland in Tbilisi (Tbilisi Cup)
Georgia v Emerging Italy in Tbilisi (Tbilisi Cup)

Results Day 1
Georgia 19, Uruguay 10 in Tbilisi (Tbilisi Cup)
Emerging Ireland 25, Emerging Italy 0 in Tbilisi (Tbilisi Cup)

Preview
Georgia managed a win over Uruguay on day one and face an easier opponent in the Emerging Italy side.

Uruguay will have their hands full against an Irish side that won comfortably on Day one.

Predictions
Georgia to defeat Emerging Italy by 12. Score 22-10
Emerging Ireland to defeat Uruguay by 4 points. Score 32-28.

TEAMS

Emerging Ireland v Uruguay

15. Peter Nelson (Malone/Ulster)
14. Cian Kelleher (Lansdowne/Leinster)
13. Eoin Griffin (London Irish)
12. Noel Reid (Clontarf/Leinster)
11. Matt Healy (Lansdowne/Connacht)
10. Rory Scannell (Dolphin/Munster)
9. John Cooney (Terenure College/Connacht)
1. James Cronin (Dolphin/Munster)
2. Dave Heffernan (Buccaneers/Connacht)
3. Stephen Archer (Cork Constitution/Munster)
4. Andrew Browne (Galwegians/Connacht)
5. Billy Holland (Cork Constitution/Munster)
6. Rhys Ruddock (St. Mary's College/Leinster) (capt)
7. Frankie Taggart (Belfast Harlequins/Ulster)
8. Eoghan Masterson (Corinthians/Connacht)

Replacements:
16. Rob Herring (Ballynahinch/Ulster)
17. Denis Buckley (Corinthians/Connacht)
18. Andrew Warwick (Ballymena/Ulster)
19. Ben Marshall (Old Belvedere/Connacht)
20. Dan Leavy (UCD/Leinster)
21. Jack Conan (Old Belvedere/Leinster)
22. Luke McGrath (UCD/Leinster)
23. JJ Hanrahan (UL Bohemians/Munster)

Uruguay

15 Jerónimo Etcheverry, 14 Leandro Leivas^Capt, 13 Joaquín Prada, 12 Andrés Vilaseca, 11 Santiago Gibernau; 10 Alejo Durán, 9 Aguistín Ormaechea /

1 Mateo Sanguinetti, 2 Germán Kessler, 3 Carlos Arboleya; 4 Franco Lamanna, 5 Mathias Palomeque; 6 Agustín Alonso, 7 Diego Magno,
8 Alejandro Nieto *

RS) 23 Alberto Román, 22 Manuel Blengio, 21 Mathias Braun / 16 Nicolás Klappenbach, 17 Mario Sagario, 18 Alejo Corral; 19 Santiago Vilaseca,
20 Fernando Bascou

http://site.rugby.ge/en/Tbilisi-Cup-2015-FF/

EMERGING ITALY v Georgia

15 Alberto CHIESA (Cammi Calvisano)
14 Filippo GUARDUCCI (Marchiol Mogliano)
13 Giovanni BENVENUTI (Marchiol Mogliano)
12 Roberto QUARTAROLI (Fiamme Oro Rugby Roma, 5 Caps)
11 Gabriele DI GIULIO (Cammi Calvisano)
10 Carlo CANNA (Fiamme Oro Rugby Roma)
9 Simone MARINARO (Fiamme Oro Rugby Roma)
8 Maxime MBANDA' (Cammi Calvisano)*
7 Emiliano CAFFINI (Femi CZ Rugby Rovigo Delta)
6 Sebastian NEGRI (Hartpury RFC)
5 Filippo GEROSA (Rugby Viadana 1970)
4 Federico RUZZA (Rugby Viadana 1970)
3 Giuseppe DI STEFANO (Fiamme Oro Rugby Roma)
2 Oliviero FABIANI (Zebre Rugby)
1 Federico ZANI (Petrarca Padova)
a disposizione
16 Luca BIGI (Petrarca Padova)
17 Laert NAKA (Fiamme Oro Rugby Roma)
18 Pietro CECCARELLI (Macon Rugby)
19 Alessio ZDRILICH (Cammi Calvisano)
20 Mirko AMENTA (Fiamme Oro Rugby Roma)
21 Simone PARISOTTO (Fiamme Oro Rugby Roma)
22 Christian BECERRA (Pro Recco Rugby)
25 Matteo CORAZZI (Marchiol Mogliano)

Georgia

15 Giorgi Aptsiauri, 14 Muraz Giorgadze, 13 Giorgi Talakhadze, 12 Tamaz Mtchedlidze, 11 Alexandre Khutsishvili; 10 Lasha Malaghuradze, 9 Vazha Khutsishvili /

FW) 1 Anton Peikrishvili, 2 Simon Maisuradze, 3 Irakli Mirtskhulava; 4 Levan Datunashvili^Capt, 5 Giorgi Chkhaidze; 6 Saba Shubitidze, 7 Beka Gorgadze, 8 Beka Bitsadze *

RS) 23 Beka Tsiklauri, 22 Giorgi Pruidze, 21 Giorgi Begadze / 16 Jaba Bregvadze, 17 Archil Bezhiashvili, 18 Nikoloz Khatiashvili; 19 Kote Mikautadze, 20 Otar Giorgadze

http://site.rugby.ge/en/Tbilisi-Cup-2015-FF/

NATIONS CUP

17.06.2015
Argentina XV v Spain in Bucharest (Nations Cup)
Namibia v Romania in Bucharest (Nations Cup)

Day One Results
Argentina XV 30, Namibia 10 in Bucharest (Nations Cup)
Romania 35, Spain 9 in Bucharest (Nations Cup)

Preview
Argentina XV should account for Spain in the first game. Spain has not provided a strong squad at this tournament (neither did they last year). Romania defeated them with ease on day 1.

The Namibia-Romania should be a more even contest. Romania won on day one against Spain but Namibia lost against the Argentina team 10-30.

Predictions:
Argentina by 30 v Spain: Score 46-16
Namibia to just edge the host by 3 points. Score 19-16

TEAMS

Argentina XV
1.- Santiago García Botta, 2.- Tomás Baravalle, 3.- Lucas Martínez; 4.- Manuel Plaza, 5.- Gerónimo Albertario; 6.- Lucas Maguire, 7.- Miguel Urtubey, 8.- Aníbal Panceyra Garrido; 9.- Lucas Alcácer (cap), 10.- Cristian Nacassian; 11.- Bautista Álvarez, 12.- Brian Ormson, 13.- Juan Ignacio Brex, 14.- Franco Cuaranta; 15.- Tomás Carrió.

Suplentes: 16.- Roberto Tejerizo, 17.- Facundo Bosch, 18.- Nicolás Mirande, 19.- Franco Baldoni, 20.- Martín Chiappesoni, 21.- Gonzalo Bertranou, 22.- Juan Cappiello, 23.- Augusto López.

Entrenadores: Felipe Contepomi y Ricardo Le Fort

http://www.uar.com.ar/noticias/noticias.asp?idinfo=4044

Spain
1. Fernando López 2. Juan Anaya 3. Fco Javier Sanz 4. Tomás Urbaitis 5. Anibal Bonán 6. David Barrera 7. José Luis Del Valle 8. Jaime Nava (c) 9. Gregory Maiquez 10. Marcos Puig 11. Ignacio Contardi 12. Thibaut Álvarez 13. Bradley Linklater 14. Antoine Sánchez 15. Sergi Aubanell

Suplentes: 16. Fco Blanco 17. Johnathan Phipps 18. Joe Hutchinson 19. Manuel Mora 20. Javier de Juan 21. Facundo Munilla 22. Pierre García 23. Gauthier Minguillón

http://www.ferugby.es/noticias2.php?titulo=Nations Cup: Leones contra Jaguares

Romania Squad

Mihai Adăscăliţei (Dinamo Bucureşti)
Marius Antonescu (Tarbes, France)
Adrian Apostol (Ştiinţa Baia Mare)
Ionuţ Botezatu (Ştiinţa Baia Mare)
Stelian Burcea (RCM Timişoara)
Valentin Calafeteanu (RCM Timişoara)
Alin Coste (Carcassonne, France)
Robert Dascălu (Steaua Bucureşti)
Dănuţ Dumbravă (Steaua Bucureşti)
Ionuţ Dumitru (Steaua Bucureşti)
Cătălin Fercu (London Saracens, England)
Csaba Gal (Universitatea Cluj)
Stephen Hihetah
Paulică Ion (Perpignan, France)
Florin Ioniţă (Steaua Bucureşti)
Mihăiţă Lazăr (Castres, France)
Viorel Lucaci (Steaua Bucureşti)
Mihai Macovei (Massy, France)
Randall Morrison (Timişoara Saracens)
Vlad Nistor (Castres, France)
Valentin Popîrlan (RCM Timişoara)
Alexandru Porojan (Steaua Bucureşti)
Horaţiu Pungea (Lyon, France)
Andrei Rădoi (Ealing Traifinders, England))
Jody Rose (Timişoara Saracens)
Sabin Strătilă (Steaua Bucureşti)
Florin Surugiu (CSM Bucureşti)
Alexandru Ţăruş (RCM Timişoara)
Otar Turaşvili (CSM Olimpia Bucureşti)
Andrei Ursache (Carcassonne, France)
Valentin Ursache (Oyonnax, France)
Florin Vlaicu (CSM Olimpia Bucureşti)
Michael Wiringi (Ştiinţa Baia Mare)

Coach: Lynn Howells

Adapted from http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=523

Namibia

1-Johnny Redelinghuys, 2-Callie Swanepoel, 3-Casper Viviers, 4-Janco Venter, 5-Nico Esterhuizen,
6-Thomasau Forbes,7- Leneve Damens, 8-PJ van Lill (captain), 9-Eugene Jantjies, 10-Shawn Kaizemi, 11-Conrad Marais, 12-JC Greyling, 13-Danie van Wyk, 14-David Philander,15- Johan Tromp.
The substitutes
16-DG Wiese,17- Jaco Engels,18- AJ de Klerk, 19-Tjiuee Uanivi, 20-Victor Rodrigues, 21-Eniell Buitendag, 22-Theuns Kotze, 23-Heinrich Smit. –

http://www.namibian.com.na/indexx.php?id=27985&page_type=story_detail

GEORGIA v URUGUAY: Tbilisi Cup

13.06.2015

Venue: Avchala Stadium, Tbilisi

Referee:

Preview
The 2015 Tbilisi Cup gets underway today northern time. Should be a comfortable win to Georgia although Uruguay looks to be close to full strength.

Prediction: Georgia by 22 points. Score 30-8

TEAMS

Uruguay Squad

Agustín Alonso (Montevideo Cricket Club) Age 23, 9 caps
Carlos Arboleya (Trébol RC) 29, 39
Fernando Bascou (PSG) 28, 19
Matías Beer (Old Christians) 21, 5
Manuel Blengio (Old Christians) 21, 7
Mathias Braun (PSG) 28, 26
Alejo Corral (San Isidro Club, Argentina) 33, 38
Alejo Durán (Trébol RC) 24, 24
Jerónimo Etcheverry (Carrasco Polo Club) 27, 37
Juan Manuel Gaminara (Old Boys) 26, 19
Santiago Gibernau (Carrasco Polo Club) 27, 26
Germán Kessler (Los Cuervos) 20, 6
Niclolás Klappenbach (Champagnat) 33, 40
Franco Lamanna (Carrasco Polo Club) 23, 18
Leandro Leivas (Old Christians) 26, 35
Diego Magno (Montevideo Cricket Club) 26, 43
Gastón Mieres (Valpoliecella, Italy) 25, 32
Alejandro Nieto (Champagnat) 27, 22
Aguistín Ormaechea (Stade Montois, France) 24, 17
Mathias Palomeque (Trébol RC) 28, 19
Joaquín Prada (Los Cuervos) 23, 22
Alberto Román (PSG) 28, 32
Mario Sagario (Massy, France) 28, 39
Mateo Sanguinetti (Los Cuervos) 22, 9
Andrés Vilaseca (Old Boys) 24, 7
Santiago Vilaseca (Capt.) (Old Boys) 30, 27
Jorge Zerbino (Old Christians) 23, 7

Head Coach: Pablo Lemoine

Adapted from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uruguay_national_rugby_union_team and
http://uru.org.uy/tbilisi-cup-los-teros-confirmados/

Georgia Squad

Giorgi Aptsiauri (AIA)
Dimitri Basilaia (Perpignan, France)
Giorgi Begadze (Kochebi RC)
Beka Bitsadze (Locomotive RC)
Jaba Bregvadze (Kochebi RC)
Giorgi Chkhaidze (Lille, France)
Levan Datunashvili (Aurillac, France)
Revaz Giaguri (Montlucon, France)
Muraz Giorgadze (Armazi)
Vasil Kakovin (Toulouse, France)
Victor Kolelishvili  (Clermont-Ferrand, France)
Nikoloz Khatiashvili (Aurillac, France)
Alexandre Khutsishvili (Kochebi RC)
Vazha Khutsishvili (Kharebi RC)
Lasha Lomidze (Beziers, France)
Simon Maisuradze (Valence, France)
Lasha Malaguradze (Bagneres, France)
Tamaz Mchedlidze (Agen, France)
Konstantine Mikautadze (Toulon, France)
Irakli Mirtskhulava (Tarbes, France)
Anton Peikrishvili (Brive, France)
Giorgi Pruidze (AIA)
Merab Sharikadze (Aurillac, France)
Giorgi Talakhadze (Lelo)
Beka Tsiklauri (Locomotive RC)
Zurab Zhvania (Stade Francais, France)

Head Coach: Milton Haig

Adapted from http://site.rugby.ge/en/news-view/?newsid=4490&callerModID=17363&Title=$TitleUrl$

In the other game (a non-test) Emerging Ireland will play Emerging Italy.

Prediction: Emerging Ireland to win by 19 points. Score 34-15

ZIMBABWE v KENYA: Africa Cup 1A

13.06.2015

Venue: Harare

Referee: Stuart Berry (South Africa)

Preview
Kenya and Zimbabwe kick of their Africa Cup 1A programmes with a clash in Harare.

Prediction: Zimbabwe by 5 points. Score 17-12

TEAMS

Kenya Squad

Forwards; Moses Amusala, Curtis Lilako, Peter Karia, Oliver Mang’eni (KCB), Samuel Warui, Isaiah Nyariki, Lawrence Buyachi, Michael Okombe (Top Fry Nakuru), Ronnie Mwenesi (Nondies), Brian Nyikuli (Strathmore Leos, Captain), Joshua Chisanga (Homeboyz), Davis Chenge (Western Bulls)

Backs; Lyle Asiligwa, Isaac Adimo, Dennis Muhanji (Kenya Harlequin), Kelvin Omiyo (Nakuru RFC), Fabian Olando, Jacob Ojee, Darwin Mukidza (KCB), Robert Aringo , Samuel Oliech, Vincent Mose (Impala Saracens)

Management: Jerome Paarwater (Head Coach), Simiyu Wangila (Team Manager), Chris Makachia (Physio)

http://fourfourtwomedia.com/index.php/2015-05-15-14-16-43/rugby/139-kenya-name-squad-to-face-zim-in-africa-cup

Zimbabwe Squad

Forwards:
Denford Mutamangira (captain), Tatenda Murwira, Farai Mudariki, Pieter Joubert, Lawrence Clemenson, Royal Mwale, Kudzai Muzorewa, Jan Ferreira, Martin Wolfenden, Sanele Sibanda, Biselele Tshamala, Tadiwa Parirenyatwa, Andrew Rose, Fortune Chipendu, Kingsley Lang, Shingai Mpofu, David Makamba

Backs:
Charles Jiji, Taddy Whata, Tichafara Makwanya, Lenience Tambwera, Boyd Rouse, Riaan O’Neil, Stephan Hunduza, Gardner Nechironga, Tafadzwa Chitokwindo, Tangai Nemadire, Lungile Tshuma, Malvern Maparura, Cleopas Makotose, Daniel Capsopolous, Kuda Chiwanza, Mclean Muhambi, Andrea Banda, Kilvan Magunje

Head Coach: Cyprian Mandenge

https://www.newsday.co.zw/2015/06/09/sables-eye-breakdown-dominance/

KENYA ‘A’ v UGANDA: Elgon Cup

13.06.2015

Venue: Rugby Football Union of East Africa (RFUEA) Grounds, Nairobi

Referee: Tinashe Kamwenje (Zimbabwe)

Preview
There was a time when the Kenya first XV played against Uganda for this cup but the growth of rugby in Kenya is reflected by the fact that for the last two years Kenya ‘A’ has been the fielded side.

Last Year
Uganda 21-14
Kenya ‘A’ 34-0
Kenya ‘A’ held on to the cup for 2014.

Prediction: Kenya ‘A’ by 20 points. Score 33-13

TEAMS

Uganda Squad

Joseph Aredo
Ramathan Govule
Oscar Kalyango
Collins Kimbowa
Justin Kimono
David Kyewalabye
Christopher Lubanga
Kevin Makmot
Alexander Mubiru
Dennis Mugambe
Asuman Mugerwa
Arthur Mpande
Ronald Musajja
Dennis Mullo
Mathias Ochwo
Brian Odongo
Pius Ogena
Scott Oluoch
Lawrence Sebuliba
Gerard Sewankambo
Charles Uhuru
Cyrus Watum
Michael Wokorach
Coaches: Robert Seguya, Anthony Kinene

Adapted from http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=519

Kenya ‘A’ Squad

1- McLanhan Sikuku - Pan Africa Strathmore Leos
2. George Asin - KCB
3. Francis Akatu - Mwamba
4. Michael Gitau - Pan Africa Strathmore LEos
5. Philip Owuor - Top Fry Nakuru
6. Stafford Abeka - KCB
7. Edwins Makori - Top Fry Nakuru/Captain
8. Charles Omondi - Pan Africa Strathmore Leos
9. Eden Agero - Kenya Harlequin
10. Kennedy Moseti -KCB
11. Cyprian Kuto - Pan Africa Strathmore Leos
12. Brian Omondi - KCB
13. Anthony Nyandigisi - Resolution Impala Saracens
14. Alvin Otieno - Homeboyz
15. Essau Otieno - KCB
16. Brian Otieno - Mwamba
17. Nesta Okotch - KCB
18. Elkins Musonye- Western Bulls
19. Elton Isiaho - Pan Africa Strathmore Leos
20. Rocky Aguko - KCB
21. Victor Wayodi - Mwamba
22. Max Kang'eri - Homeboyz
23. William Mawira - Kenya Harlequin

Management
Mitch Ocholla - Head Coach
Curtis Olago - Assistant Coach
Newton Ong'alo - Team Manager
Joseph Koli – Physio

http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=519

Image thanks to https://twitter.com/search?q=%23ElgonCup

CHINA v INDONESIA: ARC Division 3, East

13.06.2015

Venue: Jakarta Intercultural School, Jakarta

Referee:

China should easily account for the home side in the final match of this tournament. A win to China would see the promoted back to Division 2, a position they held until a few years ago.

Prediction: China by 40. Score 49-9.

TEAMS

Indonesia Squad

Forwards:

Charlie Munro
Chris Burger
M. Fadli
Bobby Orlando
Michael Zedek Daid Arwan
Marco Sebastian
Steven Haurissa
Florian Busi
Dan Sivess
Daniel Nugroho (c)
Dian Simatupang
Andrew Thompson
Markus Didikus Ria
Bayu Satria

Backs:
Yohei Oya
Greg Merrett
Alec Munro
Kurt McNally
Scott Atkinson
Stephen Field
Jeffrey W. Tei
Reynold Munro
Aga Widjojo
Ari Yuda Pramono
Justin Field
Dominic Wong

http://rugbyindonesia.or.id/2015-indonesian-rhinos-squad-announced/

China Squad not available

CHINA v GUAM: Asia Rugby Championship, Div.3, East

10.06.2015

Venue: The British School, Jakarta

Referee:

Preview:
The nation with the largest population will play a nation with one of the smallest in the ARC Division 3 East clash in Jakarta today.

China’s test rugby performances have improved considerably over the last two seasons. Prior to that China’s focus on rugby sevens and a place in the 2016 Olympics meant that their test side well and truly under performed. This is their first outing in this 3 nation tournament being held in Indonesia.

On day 1 Guam scored a win over Indonesia 17-6. In previous encounters Guam had always been dominant. That result indicated either a weaker Guam side this year or a stronger Indonesia.

China has dominated Guam over the last two seasons. I expect them to win today leaving just Indonesia on Saturday standing in the way of a Chinese promotion to Division 2 in 2016.

Previous Encounters
31.05.2014 China 41-10 in Vientiane (Asia Nations Div.3, East Final)
25.06.2011 China 28-18 in Jakarta (Asia Nations Div.3, Final)

China Last Five P 5, W2, L 3
31.05.2014 v Guam W 41-10 in Vientiane (Asia Nations Div.3, East Final)
29.05.2014 v Indonesia W 10-6 in Vientiane (Asia Nat. Div.3, East Semi-final)
07.06.2013 v Indonesia L 13-37 in Petaling Jaya (Asia Nat.Div.3, 3rd-4th)
05.06.2013 v Qatar L 0-76 in Petaling Jaya (Asia Nat.Div.3, Semi-final)
02.06.2012 v Iran L 3-52 in Kuala Lumpur (Asia Nations Div.2, 3rd-4th)

Guam Last Five P 5, W3, L 2
07.06.2015 v Indonesia W 17-6 in Jakarta (ARC, Div.3, East; Semi-final)
31.05.2014 v China L 10-41 in Vientiane (Asia Nations, Div.3 East, Final)
29.05.2014 v Laos W 48-10 in Vientiane (Asia Nat., Div.3 East, Semi-final)
08.06.2013 v Qatar L 7-13 in Petaling Jaya (Asia Nations Div.3, Final)
05.06.2013 v Indonesia W 63-8 in Petaling Jaya (Asia Nat., Div.3, Semi-final)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Asia Table: China 17th, Guam 18th

World Rugby Ranking Points
China 40.73, Guam 35.70

Prediction: China by 10 points. Score 27-17

TEAMS

  

Squad lists unavailable

AFRICA CUP; 1A

06.06.2015
Namibia 22, Tunisia 14 in Tunis (Africa Cup 1A)

Briefly
Namibia were made to work hard for their win in Tunisia. In very hot conditions 20 minute water breaks were conducted. Namibia led 12-8 at halftime.


Namibian team v Tunisia
Image thanks to https://twitter.com/RugbyNamibia

Blow-by-blow accounts at https://twitter.com/RugbyNamibia

CRESCENT CUP

06.06.2015
Malaysia 10, Lebanon 0 in Melaka (Crescent Cup, Pool A)-Match abandoned at half time due to weather
Algeria 26, Kazakhstan 5 in Melaka (Crescent Cup, Pool B)

Briefly
Algeria were too good for Kazakhstan in the opening game of the 2015 Crescent Cup. Hosts Malaysia were leading Lebanon 10-0 at halftime when the match was abandoned due to bad weather. The result stands.

Uzbekistan is the fifth team in this competition. Because Iran pulled out the competition may be reorganised so the future schedule is to be confirmed.

NAMIBIA v TUNISIA: Africa Cup, Division 1A

06.06.2015

Venue: Nabeul, Tunisia

Referee: C.Berdos (France)

Preview
Namibia has an advantage here in that they have a greater exposure to world rugby than does Tunisia. Tunisia is restricted to playing in Africa Cup competition which involved two perhaps three games annually plus the occasional test match friendly against a nations outside Africa.

Tunisia gained promotion to Africa Cup Division 1A after winning the 1B competition in 2014.

This is an important warm-up game for Namibia’s preparations for this year’s Rugby World Cup.

Last Five Encounters
16.06.2013 Namibia 45-13 in Dakar (WCQ Africa; CAR 1B, Final)
28.11.2009 Namibia 22-10 in Windhoek (WCQ Africa, Africa Cup Final, 2nd leg)
14.11.2009 Namibia 18-13 in Tunis (WCQ Africa, Africa Cup Final, 1st leg)
07.10.2006 Namibia 23-15 in Windhoek (WCQ Africa R2, Grp B; Africa Cup B)
01.07.2006 Tunisia 24-7 in Tunis (WCQ Africa R2, Grp B; Africa Cup B)

Encounters between these two nations go back to 1998 when Tunisia won 20-17 in Tunis in a World Cup qualifying game. These games were evenly contested until 2006 when Namibia began to dominate. Results have always been close, last year excepted.

Namibia Last Five P 5, W 3, L 2
22.11.2014 v Portugal L 20-29 in Lisbon
07.11.2014 v Canada L 13-17 in Colwyn Bay
29.10.2014 v Germany W 58-20 in Windhoek
06.07.2014 v Madagascar W 89-10 in Antananarivo (WCQ Africa; Africa Cup 1A)
02.07.2014 v Zimbabwe W 24-20 in Antananarivo (WCQ Africa; Africa Cup 1A)

Tunisia Last Five P 5, W3, L 2
14.06.2014 v Ivory Coast W 26-6 in Tunis (CAR Division 1B, Final)
10.06.2014 v Senegal W 22-14 in Tunis (CAR Division 1B, Semi-final)
02.11.2013 v Belgium L 10-26 in Tabiz
15.06.2013 v Namibia L 13-45 in Dakar (WCQ Africa; CAR 1B, Final)
11.06.2013 v Botswana W 43-12 in Dakar (WCQ Africa; CAR 1B, Semi-final)

GWC Rugby Rankings
Africa Table: Namibia 2nd, Tunisia 6th

World Rugby Ranking Points
Namibia 58.27, Tunisia 49.89

Prediction: Namibia by 26 points. Score 39-13

TEAMS

Namibia Squad

Rathony Becker (FNB Western Suburbs, 10 Tests)
Eneill Buitendag (FNB Wanderers, 10)
Johannes (Aranos) Coetzee (Brive, Frankryk, 0)
Leneve Damens (FNB Wanderers, 0)
Tinus du Plessis (FNB Wanderers, 39)
Jaco Engels (Trustco United, 8)
Nico Esterhuyse (FNB Wanderers, 31)
Thomasau Forbes (FNB Western Suburbs, 4)
JC Greyling (Trustco United, 2)
Eugene Jantjies (RCJ Farul, Roemenië, 38)
Shaun Kaizemi (FNB Western Suburbs, 3)
Theuns Kotzé (Bourge Bresse, Frank­ryk, 19)
Conrad Marais (Beziers, Frankryk, 4)
David Philander (Spotswood United, Nieu-Seeland, 18)
Heinrich Smit (Pukke, 6)
Johann Tromp (FNB Wanderers, 11)
Tjiuee Uanivi (Brive, Frankryk, 3)
PJ van Lill (Dax, Frankryk, 33)
Danie van Wyk (Trustco United, 9)
Casper Viviers (Trustco United, 7)
Roderique Victor (FNB Western Suburbs, 2)
DG Wiese (FNB Wanderers, 2)

http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=515

Tunisia squad not available

CRESCENT CUP:June 6-11

Originally 16 teams were invited to this all-Muslim international rugby tournament organised by the Islamic Solidarity Federation and hosted by Malaysia.

This above was the original poster with dates from 1-14 June. Apparently when the tournament changed to 6 –14 June a number of teams, including Iran and Kazakhstan, pulled out.

The tournament has eventually been reduced to 4 teams; Malaysia, Algeria, Lebanon and Uzbekistan.

Algerian squad. Image thanks to http://www.lagazettedufennec.com/

Lebanese Squad thanks to https://www.facebook.com/MalaysiaRugbyUnion

‘The Lebanese Phoenix training in the sweltering heat in the lead up to their first match against host nation Malaysia tomorrow at 5pm’.
https://www.facebook.com/LebaneseRugbyUnion

Whilst the draw for day one is yet to be announced I’m assuming that with a 4-team competition that it will be round-robin with two fixtures on each day.

Thus, Today we should see (but not guaranteed)
Malaysia v Lebanon: Malaysia by 8 points-26-18
Algeria v Uzbekistan: Algeria by 34 points-42-18

Teams

Algeria Squad

All France based unless otherwise stated.
Sébastien Abdelkader (Millau)
Bilal Abed (Saint-Sulpice)
Nordine Badji (?)
Bekada Belhaouari (Castanet)
Nasser Benamor (Valence d’Agen)
Boris Bouhraoua (Napier, NZ)
Lou Bouhraoua (Montluçon)
Nadir Boukhaloua (Givors)
Walid Bouregba (Toulouse Olympique 13 RL)
Sofiane Chellat (Stade Français)
Mehdi Chouchane (Bedarrides)
Yazid Chouchane (Bedarrides)
Samir Doukbi (La Seyne)
Mahmoud Djenadi (Carqueiranne Hyères RF)
Mourad Frih (Grasse)
Vincent Haouari (Hyères Carqueiranne)
Samir Khamouche (Berre)
Romain Lacoste (Tyrosse)
Djamel Ouchene (Libourne).
Moussa Reghis (Annecy)
Yassine Saaoui (Montluçon)
Said Tamghart (Whitehaven RL, England)
Danyl Youcef (Aix en Provence)

Adapted from http://t2rugby.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=333

   

Malaysia, Lebanon and Uzbekistan squads not available

WORLD TEST RUGBY UPDATE

31.05.2015
England XV 72, Barbarians (UK) RFC 12 at Twickenham (Non test)

30.05.2015
Kenya 41, Portugal 15 in Nairobi (Friendly)

Briefly
It’s great to see the Portugal v Kenya fixtures taking place. These cross-continental test fixtures are vital for the growth of the game world-wide. Spain will be the next team to visit Nairobi later in July.

ASIA RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP: DIV.3, CENTRAL

Held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Pakistan withdrew.

30.05.2015
Uzbekistan 32, India 15

27.05.2015
India 31, Uzbekistan 8

India won 46-40 on aggregate and win promotion to Division 2 for 2016.

AFRICA CUP; NORTH 2 UPDATE

Played in Ougadougou, Burkina Faso

30.05.2015
Burkina Faso 12, Ghana 0
Niger 50, Togo 15
Mali 65, Benin 5

27.05.2015
Mali 24, Ghana 7
Niger 82, Benin 5
Burkina Faso 20, Togo 7

23.05.2015
Burkina Faso 65, Benin 3
Mali 31, Togo 12
Niger 28, Ghana 10

RUGBY EUROPE CHAMPIONSHIP UPDATE

30.05.2015
Netherlands 24, Sweden 14 in Amsterdam (REC 1B)

23.05.2015
Ukraine 18, Netherlands 10 in Odessa (REC1B)
Finland 20, Turkey 12 in Helsinki (REC 2D)
Norway 43, Bulgaria 0 in Bergen (REC 2D)

SOUTH AMERICAN RUGBY UPDATE

31.05.2015
Fiji XV 42, Uruguay 22 in Montevideo (Friendly)

23.05.2015
Argentina 71, Paraguay 7 in Asuncion (CONSUR CUP)

Argentina retains the CONSUR Cup for 2015. 2016 challengers will be Uruguay and Chile.