As Kenya's Under-20 side, Chipu, prepares for the 2026 Rugby Africa U20 Barthés Trophy in Uganda, one of the country's brightest young talents will be forced to watch from the sidelines.Kabras RFC's Adrian Khwesa, who has been one of the breakout stars of the 2026 National Sevens Circuit, has missed out on the squad not because of his performances, but due to a lack of travel documents.##NAJAVA_MECA_9878441##The 19-year-old has caught the eye throughout the circuit with his versatility, seamlessly switching between the wing and centre while producing a string of electrifying displays for the Kenya Cup champions.His impressive form had positioned him as one of the leading contenders for a place in the national Under-20 team, but passport issues have denied him the opportunity to represent Kenya on the continental stage.Speaking about the youngster, Kabras RFC coach Carlos Kyatwa expressed disappointment that Khwesa's talent will not be showcased in Kampala.Gor Mahia coach explains why Gor Mahia will beat Al Hilal"Khwesa is 19 years old right now. He has been playing both centre and wing, and he has been destroying a lot of things. But it is just a pity that he does not have a passport; that is why he is not in the U20 squad," the gaffer said.Khwesa's absence means he will not join fellow Kabras youngsters Jackson Siketa, Mike Lukusi and Rayvon Ambale, all of whom have been selected for the tournament.His omission is a significant blow for both the player and Kenya's Under-20 setup, especially given the importance of the Barthés Trophy as a platform for young players to announce themselves on the continental stage.KSSSA: Former champions Highway silence Yala but Menengai dash semi-final hopesMeanwhile, Chipu now know the challenge that lies ahead after Rugby Africa released the fixtures for the 2026 U20 Barthés Trophy, set to take place at Mutesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku, Kampala, from Friday, 7 August to Saturday, 15 August.This year's tournament introduces a revamped format to provide more competitive fixtures and accelerate rugby development across the continent.Unlike previous editions, the participating nations have been divided into two divisions. Uganda, Zambia and Madagascar will compete in the First Division, while Kenya has been placed in the Performance Division alongside Zimbabwe, Namibia and Tunisia.KSSSA: TikTok goalkeeper dreaming of Harambee Stars inspires Takaba's historic runKenya will begin its campaign against Zimbabwe on Friday, 7 August, with kick-off scheduled for 1:00 p.m. East Africa Time. Earlier that day, Namibia will face Tunisia.The opening fixtures will determine the next round of matches. Victory over Zimbabwe would send Kenya into the Performance Division final on 11 August against the winner of the Namibia-Tunisia clash. Defeat would instead see Chipu face the loser in the classification match.
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