…as Lesotho faces Eswatini in historic World Rugby Test match
Leemisa Thuseho
BOTSWANA has withdrawn from the BOLESWA Tri-Nations Rugby Tournament at the 11th hour, forcing organisers to restructure the event into a World Rugby–sanctioned Test match between Lesotho and Eswatini.
The Federation of Lesotho Rugby (FLR) confirmed the withdrawal yesterday, just a day before the tournament was scheduled to kick off at Mejametalana Airwing in Maseru. Lesotho was supposed to face Botswana today.
While expressing regret over Botswana’s sudden exit, the FLR announced that the show would go on, with Lesotho’s Likatola (The Stallions) set to face Eswatini on 11 October 2025. The match will carry full World Rugby ranking points, making it one of the most important fixtures in Lesotho’s rugby history.
“This match presents a unique opportunity for Lesotho to showcase its rugby growth and ambition on an international stage,” the FLR said in a statement.
“We remain committed to ensuring that our players, technical staff, and supporters enjoy a competitive, professional, and memorable rugby occasion.”
FLR further thanked sponsors, partners, and supporters for their unwavering commitment despite the unforeseen change, urging Basotho to rally behind the national team.
Meanwhile, Lesotho head coach, Rapelang Raphepheng, said his team was still focused and ready to deliver a strong performance.
“It’s unfortunate that Botswana withdrew, but our preparations remain the same. The players are ready, and morale in the camp is very high,” Raphepheng said.
Appointed in March this year, Raphepheng had been targeting his first title with Likatola in the Tri-Nations, but now he has his sights set on a historic Test victory.
“This match will show how far we’ve come as a team. We’ve built great understanding and teamwork, and we’re determined to make the nation proud,” he added.
The coach said he would rely heavily on players with Rugby Sevens (7s) experience to bring international exposure and tactical sharpness into the 15s game.
Match details:
- Fixture: Lesotho vs Eswatini
- Date: Saturday, 11 October 2025
- Venue: Mejametalana Airwing, Maseru
Likatola Final Squad
Forwards: Siyabonga Lekhooana (Lesotho Rugby Academy), Chabana Mokone (Lesotho Rugby Academy), Fiee Matabataba (Liqhomane), Nkuka Tlali (Lesotho Rugby Academy), Motheo Mokhothu (Lesotho Rugby Academy), Monki Ramoholi (Lesotho Rugby Academy), Mpomane Mokete (Liqhomane), Sejake Keketso (Liqhomane), Monaheng Mokitimi (Liqhomane), Letsie Thabiso (Maseru Warriors), Leshota Lehana (Maseru Warriors), Khoali Thabelo (Mabote Beavers), Rethabile Ntšasa (NUL Spears).
Backline: Joele Reatile (Lesotho Rugby Academy), Mokhoele Lehloenya (Lesotho Rugby Academy), Motseremeli Tlotliso (Lesotho Rugby Academy), Ncheke Bokang (Lesotho Rugby Academy), Mphaki Karabo (Liqhomane), Mohasi Lehlohonolo (Liqhomane), Moletsane Tšolo (Maseru Warriors), Phate Sekhoola (Mabote Beavers), Fanana Itebokheng (NUL Spears), Nkola Monyatsi (Mabote Beavers), Katali Tumelo (Liqhomane), Nketsi Bakoena (Maseru Warriors).
On Standby: Kelello Linakane (Liqhomane), Amos Motaung (Maseru Warriors).