Kenya Lionesses head coach Simon Odongo has made several changes to his squad for their final Rugby Africa Women’s Cup match against Uganda Lady Cranes, scheduled for 1:00 p.m. at Stade Makis, Madagascar.
Both sides will be eyeing a crucial win as they chase second place and aim to pile pressure on leaders South Africa, who take on Madagascar later in the day.
In the front row, positional switches see Jane Chanya and Natasha Emali swap roles, with Naomi Muhanji retaining the hooker position. Maureen Chebet, the vice-captain, will partner with Noleen Khaleyi in the second row, with Naomi Jelagat making way.
The back row remains unchanged, with skipper Enid Ouma and Naomi Amuguni starting as flankers, while Sheila Chajira retains her position at number eight.
EDITOR’S PICKS:
- Why Patrick Odongo Okong’o feels indebted
- List of rugby prospects from high school
- Colman Were keen to redefine Kenyan rugby’s physical edge
- Follow Scrummage Africa on Facebook
Edith Nariaka drops to the bench, allowing Ann Njeri to start at scrum-half. Moreen Muritu keeps her place at fly-half.
In the backs, Yvette Okech is set to make her debut on the left wing – a memorable birthday gift as she joins the starting XV. She replaces Stella Wafula, who moves to the bench. In midfield, Christabel Lindo pairs with Faith Livoi, as Grace Okulo also takes a spot among the substitutes.
Diana Awino starts on the right wing in place of Freshia Awino, while Sinaida Nyachio completes the starting XV at fullback.
The Lionesses head into the clash with six points from a win and a loss, while Uganda are just behind with five points.
- Jane Chanya
- Naomi Muhanji
- Natasha Emali
- Maureen Chebet (VC)
- Noleen Khaleyi
- Enid Ouma (C)
- Naomi Amuguni
- Sheila Chajira
- Ann Njeri
- Moreen Muritu
- Yvette Okech*
- Faith Livoi
- Christabel Lindo
- Diana Awino
- Sinaida Nyachio
*Denotes a debut
SUBS
- Knight Otwoma
- Ivonne Khatundu*
- Sheila Wesa
- Naomi Jelagat
- Nelly Chikombe
- Edith Nariaka (VC)
- Grace Okulu
- Stella Wafula
