KAMPALA: The Uganda Rugby Cranes defeated Zimbabwe 26-0 to emerge winners of the African Rugby Sevens tournament at Kyadondo Rugby Grounds.
French-based player Phillip Wokorach secured three conversions to help Uganda defeat Zimbabwe. Ian Munyani and captain Micheal Wokorach also contributed a try each, while Timothy Kisiga contributed two. Uganda finished the tournament unbeaten.
To qualify for the final, Uganda defeated Kenya 22-12 in a mouthwatering semi-final.
In the 2017 edition, the Uganda Rugby Cranes still managed to scoop the tournament after beating opponents Zimbabwe 10-7 to defend the title.
The victory for the Rugby Cranes means that Uganda has also booked a slot in the Rugby World Cup that will take place in South Africa.
Uganda also qualified for the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, joining Kenya, which had already qualified.
The competition was returning for the first time after a two-year sabbatical courtesy of COVID-19 restrictions. It was last played in 2019.
Team captain Micheal Wokorach thanked his teammates for fighting for the flag.
“We have made it. We have qualified for the Commonwealth and World Cup. The victory has shown that Uganda is a strong team. Every player has fought hard to make sure we win. I thank my fellow players for that heart.” Micheal Wokorach told URN.