Gaborone — The trip by national Under-18 and Under-19 teams to Zimbabwe for friendly games has been cancelled because of political instability.

Troubled Zimbabwe is in another political crisis after delays in announcing the results of the presidential election last month. Botswana Rugby Union (BRU) secretary, Oupa Pandor told Mmegi Sport yesterday that Zimbabwe had invited them for friendly matches but they decided to cancel the trip because of the crisis. The teams were expected to leave today.

Pandor said they have requested Zimbabwe to come to Botswana so that the games could be played as curtain raisers for the Vultures World Cup pre-qualifier against Swaziland on May 17. "They have responded and welcomed the request," he said. The Botswana Under-18 team is preparing for the crucial Confederation of African Rugby (CAR) tournament to be played in Ndola, Zambia on May 25. Pandor said they are trying to organise build-up matches for the team ahead of the Ndola tournament after the Zimbabwe trip failed. He revealed that the Under-18 team will take part in an annual inter-provincial tournament in Potchefstroom, South Africa. Pandor said they are usually invited to the tournament and this gives Botswana players an opportunity to get scholarships to study in South Africa.

Meanwhile, BRU will hold its first awards dinner at Gaborone Sun on July 26. Pandor told Mmegi Sport that they have always wanted to host the event but they have not been favoured by the schedule. He said that at the time when their league ends, the national teams get involved in international tournaments. "So it was difficult to plan and prepare an awards dinner for people when they are not there. But this has since changed. This year's schedule is favourable and we are looking forward to hosting the dinner in July and many years to come," he said. Pandor revealed that they will be speaking to potential sponsors to finance the event.