NAIROBI, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Rugby Africa has announced new playing format for its flagship tournament, the Africa Gold Cup ahead of the 2019 season.

The continental rugby governing body has announced it will have eight teams divided into two Pools battling for the coveted title, with the ultimate winner crowned the Africa champion for the rugby 15s game.

However, according to Rugby Africa President Abdelaziz Bougja, the venue of the two pool tournament is yet to be agreed.

"The dates are tentative and should they change, Rugby Africa will alert the participating nations," said Abdelaziz Bougja on Wednesday.

Reigning Africa Gold Cup Champions Namibia spearhead Pool A that also features Tunisia, Zimbabwe and the newly promoted Zambia.

Pool B has Kenya, which finished second, missing the World Cup ticket through the continental qualifiers, Uganda, Algeria and Morocco. The 2018 Africa Gold Cup tournament attracted only six teams.

Zambia beat Botswana and Madagascar in the Silver Cup South region while Algeria beat the Republic of Cote d'Ivoire and Senegal in Silver Cup North area.

"The proposed format will have the pool matches played in a round robin in two different venues and on different dates in July," said Bougja.

Pool A matches will be played between July 6-14 while Pool B matches will take place between July 13-21. The eight countries have been asked to bid for hosting rights for the pool stages.

Winners of each pool will proceed to the final where the host will be chosen according to the points collected during the pool phases. The final will take place in November. Enditem