Namibia has announced its matchday squad for the opening match against Senegal in the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, set to take begin tomorrow, July 8, in Kampala, Uganda.
The Welwitschias will compete in the third match of the day, kicking off at 2:00 PM as they aim to start on a high as this year’s tournament is crucial, where the winner secures direct qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
The tournament will adopt a straight knockout format and it is scheduled to run from July 8 to 19 at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda.
Namibia in preparation for the tournament, Namibia’s Welwitschias edged Uganda 22-19 in a build-up fixture, although they later suffered a defeat to the Pumas.
The squad also faced a stern test against Italy, where they lost 73-6.
The squad will be led by loose forward Prince !Gaoseb, who serves as captain, with Danco Burger as vice-captain.
Namibia Rugby Africa Squad
The forward pack features Jason Benade, Louis van der Westhuizen, and Aranos Coetzee in the front row.
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In the second row, Oliver Kurz and Johan Retief will take charge of the positions, while !Gaoseb, Max Katjijeko, and Adriaan Booysen will play as openside flanker, blindside flanker, and number 8, respectively.
Jacques Theron starts at scrumhalf, partnering with fly-half Tiaan Swanepoel. The midfield comprises vice-captain Danco Burger and Andre van der Berg.
On the wings, Jurgen Meyer will play on the right and Danie van der Merwe on the left, with Cliven Loubser positioned at fullback.
Namibia Matchday Squad vs Senegal (July 8, 2025)
1. Jason Benade
2. Louis van der Westhuizen
3. Aranos Coetzee
4. Oliver Kurz
5. Johan Retief
6. Prince !Gaoseb (Captain)
7. Max Katjijeko
8. Adriaan Booysen
9. Jacques Theron
10. Tiaan Swanepoel
11. Jurgen Meyer
12. Danco Burger (Vice-Captain)
13. Andre van der Berg
14. Danie van der Merwe
15. Cliven Loubser
Replacements:
16. Torsten van Jaarsveld
17. Otja Auala
18. Haitembu Shikufa
19. Adriaan Ludick
20. Armand Combrinck
21. AJ Kearns
22. Alcino Izaacs
23. Le Roux Malan
