Impala RFC head coach Louis Kisia has clarified the return of senior players to the squad ahead of their Kenya Cup campaign next season.
The recent preseason matches have seen veterans like Sammy Oliech, Israel Soi, and David Ambunya feature for the Gazelles, with Davis Makori playing for the Impala Boks.
Impala RFC old guards
When asked about their availability, Kisia explained that the players were not specifically recalled but felt it was time to rejoin the squad, acknowledging the toughness of Kenya Cup and the experience needed.
“To the old guards, no one brought them back; they came back by themselves. They know the Kenya Cup is not easy; it’s tough and requires experience, and they are there to support the boys and bring in the experience. Thanks to the likes of Sammy Oliech, David Ambunya, and Israel Soi, who show that they are no longer young and eager to play for Impala,” he told Scrummage Africa.
The coach emphasized that having seasoned players, many of whom are former Kenyan internationals, adds strategic advantage and boosts the morale of younger players in the squad.
“Definitely, at times, rugby is about playing names, when you have such names in your team list the opposition takes concern, they are also careful because they know the calibre of players. It is also a morale booster to the young lads, who grew up watching them play for the National. It is a morale boost to reach the heights they reached,” he stated.
EDITOR’S PICKS:
- Follow us on Scrummage Africa FB
- Mike Friday advice to Kenya 7s
- List of laws to used in Kenya Cup 2024/25
- 1 step forward, 2 back: A story of Kenya Rugby Referees
On the addition of new faces like Andrew Matoka, Kisia expressed his approach to team recruitment, focusing on filling the squad’s specific needs.
“Well of course success is all about recruitment and am big on recruiting based on the team needs rather than what I want. At the moment I have recruited one or two for the position that the team was lacking and now we are good to go. Not that the door is closed, any other top players who want to join us and as long as they play multiple positions and it’s what the team need we will always recruit,” he added.
Kisia also touched on Matoka’s move from Leos, clarifying that the transition was amicable. “Matoka is here for a good cause, he didn’t leave Leos in bad faith,” he concluded.
