Sports Photographer Chronicles the Hilarity and Excitement at the World Rugby U20 Trophy.
Nairobi, Kenya – Get ready to unleash the beast of rugby fever because the World Rugby U20 Trophy is hitting Nairobi like a runaway scrum! As a sports photographer, I’m thrilled to capture all the thrilling moments, high-flying tackles and even the occasional hilarious blunders at the Nyayo National Stadium. It’s the perfect chance for sports enthusiasts and comedy lovers alike to witness a game that promises not just try-scoring brilliance, but also plenty of side-splitting action! With the Nyayo National Stadium still echoing with the cries of “try, try again” from the recently concluded Barthes Trophy U20, the rugby fever refuses to subside. It seems the rugby gods have blessed Nairobi, or maybe they just can’t resist the Kenyan spirit of humor and joy. Either way, prepare yourself for an epic rollercoaster ride of rugby madness, where serious sportsmanship collides with slapstick hilarity. This is my first assignment on the international stage, and let me tell you, I’ve been grinning like a Cheshire cat on steroids.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: Kenya hosting an international rugby tournament? Trust me, it’s not as absurd as a giraffe playing fly-half. In fact, this is the second time we’re hosting the U20 Trophy, the last one being in 2009 when the tournament was known as the Junior World Rugby Trophy. We may have finished fourth back then, but this time, we’re aiming for the top like an acrobatic lineout jumper. Picture this: a burly player with the agility of a cheetah, charging toward the try line, only to be tripped by a mischievous squirrel that has somehow made its way onto the field. Or perhaps a scrum collapsing in a heap of bodies, only to reveal a player sporting the most extraordinary hairstyle ever witnessed on a rugby pitch. Trust us, these moments will be too priceless to miss!
But enough about us, let’s talk about the juicy details. The tournament kicks off in a month, and the opening match promises to be a blockbuster. Zimbabwe and Scotland U20 will battle it out on the sacred grounds of the Nyayo National Stadium at 10:00 local time (GMT+3). Picture this: scorching sun, swirling dust, and rugby warriors ready to rumble. It’s going to be hotter than a penalty given against the home team.
And hey, it’s not just about the shiny silverware. These eight teams will be fighting tooth and nail for a coveted spot in the World Rugby U20 Championship next year in South Africa. The winners get promoted to the U20 Championship, while the poor souls who finish last will find themselves dropping down to the U20 Trophy in 2024. Talk about high stakes rugby drama!
— Liamphoto(@LiamLikesnonee) May 11, 2023
Now, let’s take a look at the pools. In Pool A, we have Scotland, Uruguay, USA, and Zimbabwe. Scotland is new to the U20 Trophy, having been relegated from the U20 Championship in 2019. I’m sure they’re determined to make a strong comeback, like a lion ready to pounce on a defenseless gazelle. On the other hand, Pool B consists of our very own Kenya, Spain, Samoa, and Hong Kong China. I can already hear the drums of excitement and the sounds of Maasai warriors cheering their hearts out.
But wait, there’s more! This tournament isn’t just about the players; we have some groundbreaking officials too. Kat Roche from the USA and Precious Pazani from Zimbabwe are set to make history as the first female referees at the World Rugby U20 Trophy. It’s a monumental moment, and I can’t help but picture them showing the players who’s boss with a stern but fair whistle blow. Go ladies, show ’em how it’s done!
As we count down the days to this rugby extravaganza, I can feel the buzz building up. The anticipation is so thick you could cut it with a pair of rugby boots. I can’t wait to capture the intense battles, the victorious celebrations, and maybe even a comical face plant or two. After all, what’s rugby without a few laughter-inducing blunders?
So, brace yourselves, Nairobi! Get your jerseys, flags, and vocal cords ready because this tournament is going to be a rollercoaster ride of thrills, spills, and unforgettable moments. As we say here in Kenya, “Karibuni Kenya!” Welcome to our home, where rugby dreams come to life, and laughter echoes through the stadium. Let the games begin!
