Welwitschias plan Kenya friendly matches

WINDHOEK, 05 SEP – The Welwitschias are likely to play two matches against Kenya in October as part of the preparations for the 2019 World Cup, Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) Chief Executive Officer, Mervin Green, has said.
Speaking to Nampa about reports emanating from Kenya, Green said there was a discussion between the two countries which may result in the matches being played on 21 and 28 October in Kenya.
“We did receive an invitation from our Kenyan counterparts to play two matches. For now nothing has been agreed upon. I am busy discussing with my board to see how we handle this. The biggest blocking issue is who will take the cost,” he said.
He added that there is a keen interest by both countries as the matches will help them prepare for the World Cup.
Kenya will be engaged in the play-off qualifications in a bid to secure a World Cup berth, while Namibia qualified for their fifth successive finals after beating Kenya 53-28 in Windhoek last month.
Green added that Namibia coach Phil Davis was keen in the preparatory games.
“He is of opinion that we can play those two games. He needs that preparation time. This will also be a chance to support our African friends get there (World Cup). We need to finalise on our side and sort out all the logistics,” he added.
The NRU CEO said they are in constant contact with World Rugby as they aim to make the two matches a success.
Online reports from Kenya indicate that they expect Namibia to name a strong squad as a way of preparing both teams for the different tasks that lie ahead of them. – NAMPA