Despite facing visa setbacks that prevented several key players from joining the team, the Uganda Rugby Cranes 7s have made a positive start to the Willem Strauss International Rugby 7’s Tournament.
Seven members of the travelling contingent were denied Visas to South Africa citing a previous overstay incident from the 2023 World Challenger Series.
Uganda Rugby Union said in a statement that despite assurances from the South African Department of Home Affairs that the matter had been resolved, the South Africa High Commission in Uganda remained steadfast in its decision.
The URU made a decision to send only eight team members to South Africa, while working tirelessly to address the visa issue with the relevant authorities.
In their opening match against Zimbabwe, the Cranes emerged victorious with a narrow 19-17 win over the Cheetahs.
Meanwhile, the Uganda Lady Cranes 7s continued their dominance in women’s rugby, securing a comprehensive 46-10 win over the Zimbabwean women’s team.
The tournament is set to end today Sunday September 8th.
