Kenya Simbas head coach Jerome Paarwater has revealed his final 28-man squad for the upcoming Rugby Africa Cup 15s, set to take place in Uganda from July 18 to 29.
The team comprises a mix of seasoned players and promising talents, all geared up for a competitive tournament.
Kenya Simbas returnees
The squad sees the return of experienced trio Malcolm Onsando, Samson Onsomu, and Michael Wanjala. They are joined by South Africa-based lock Thomas Okeyo, KCB captain Griffin Musila, and Timothy Okwemba, who all missed last year’s internationals.
Kenya Simbas prepare for a scrum against EP Elephants. Photo Courtesy/ KRU
Blak Blad’s standout player Obat Kuke, who impressed in the Kenya Cup and Rugby Super Series, has made the cut. He is joined by Richel Wangila and Menengai Oilers playmaker Abdultwalib Wesonga.
Paarwater has retained the majority of players from last season. This includes Ephraim Oduor, Eugene Sifuna, Teddy Akala, Wilhite Mususi, Hibrahim Ayoo, Hillary Odhiambo, Jeanson Musoga, Elkeans Musonye, Derrick Ashihundu, Walter Okoth, Paul Mutsami, Bryceson Adaka, and Alfred Orege.
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George Nyambua will continue as Kenya Simbas captain, with Samson Onsomu and Eugene Sifuna as his deputies. Simbas team to the Rugby Africa cup departs on July 18.
The team is particularly focused on their first match against Senegal on July 20 at 12:00 PM EAT. This match is anticipated to be challenging, as Senegal previously defeated Kenya in Nairobi two years ago. The Simbas are determined to turn the tables and secure a victory this time around.
Kenya Simbas captain George Nyambua and Uganda’s Ali Bhika. Photo/Uganda Rugby Union
“Despite limited preparation time, the players are motivated and ready to face the challenge. We aim to give our best as the last time the Simbas won the Africa Cup was in 2013,” said Coach Jerome.
Kenya Simbas Travelling Squad:
- Ephraim Oduor
- Edward Mwaura
- Eugene Sifuna
- Teddy Akala
- Griffin Musila
- Wilhite Mususi
- Hillary Mwanjilwa
- Hibrahim Ayoo
- Clinton Odhiambo
- Hillary Odhiambo
- Malcolm Onsando
- George Nyambua
- Thomas Okeyo
- Obat Kuke
- Jeanson Musoga
- Elkeans Musonye
- Michael Wanjala
- Samson Onsomu
- Barry Young
- Beldad Ogeta
- Derrick Ashihundu
- Walter Okoth
- Paul Mutsami
- Richel Wagila
- Bryceson Adaka
- Timothy Okwemba
- Alfred Orege
- Abdultwalib Wesonga
Non-Travelling Reserves:
- Francis Atiti
- Amos Obae
- Dan Angwech
- Tyson Maina
- Griffin Chao
- Quinto Ongo
Technical Team:
- Head Coach – Jerome Paarwater
- Team Manager – Jimmy Mnene
- Physio – Stephen Mankone
