Jiji a rugby superstar

Oh yeah we won but yah this is not the final, it is the genesis boys we are coming for that world trophy. America here we come, he warned the Young Sables opponents in next years edition of the International Rugby Board Junior World Trophy.

By winning the African showpiece after beating traditional rivals, Namibia, the Brighton Chivandire coached side won a ticket to the global showdown.

For the Prince Edward schoolboy and Young Sables fly half, Charles Jiji, playing for the national rugby team was never one of his wildest dreams. But with the inspiration of junior coaches, Godwin Murambiwa and Brighton Chivandire, Jiji has proved a force to reckon with at the international stage.

The experience that I have gained over the years playing for Zimbabwe junior teams has been incredible. I have definitely learnt a lot from the first time I have put on the national colours to date. Playing for Zimbabwe has let me mature more as a player and as a person in general and I am truly grateful to the people who have inspired me and urged me on, Jiji said.

The 19-year-old transferred to the Harare-based school from Victoria High School in 2007 as a basketball player, with no idea of how to play rugby.

At first l had no idea what I was getting into but after a few practices I got used to the physical side of the game and started to enjoy it, he said.

The fly-half has been part of the pillar of the Young Sables strength in recent years taking part in regional, continental and international rugby showcases. However, the Zimbabwe Rugby Union has been unfortunate to lose young talent to foreign countries, as players leave for scholarships abroad.

I think that there should be more incentives for players to stay in Zimbabwe. These include higher education, competitive structures once players leave high school academies- and of course financial benefits, Jiji concluded.