Kenya Shock Namibia in Rugby World Cup 2015 Qualification
Kenya have taken a big step towards qualifying for their first-ever Rugby World Cup with an impressive 29-22 victory over Namibia in the opening round of Confederation Africaine de Rugby Division 1A matches in Antananarivo, Madagascar on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s England 2015 ambitions remain on track after defeating hosts Madagascar 57-22 in front of a capacity crowd in the Rugby-mad capital.
Zimbabwe have not featured at Rugby’s showcase event since 1991, but were in blistering form against their opponents to steal an early lead in the event standings.
While Namibia and Madagascar have work to do if they are to secure qualification, with two rounds to go and the action both open and exciting, there is plenty of time to stake a claim.
The winner of the three-round tournament will join New Zealand, Argentina, Tonga and Georgia in Pool C, while the runner-up will face Russia for a place in the Repechage Final.
The Webb Ellis Cup will visit Madagascar for the first time ahead of the decisive round of matches on July 6 as part of the official Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour, presented by DHL and Land Rover, and its arrival is eagerly anticipated.
The IRB is streaming all the matches live via www.irb.com/live while you can join the conversation @rugbyworldcup.
Match schedule
June 28
Namibia 22 – Kenya 29
Zimbabwe 57 – Madagascar 22
July 2
Zimbabwe v Namibia
Kenya v Madagascar
July 6
Madagascar v Namibia
Kenya v Zimbabwe