The 2022 Elgon Cup contest pitting Kenya Simbas and Uganda Cranes has been canceled, Uganda Rugby Union have announced.
This year’s tournament was scheduled for 23 July with the return leg set for 30 July. However, according to Uganda Rugby, their counterparts Kenya Rugby Union informed them that will not participate in this year’s event due to prevailing economic conditions and the upcoming general elections.
“As you are aware, the annual Rugby matches between Uganda and Kenya ‘The Elgon Cup’ were scheduled to take place on 23rd July 2022 and 30th July 2022 in Uganda and Kenya respectively. We regret to inform you that these have been canceled for this year, 2022, reads a statement signed by Hon Secretary Peter Odong.
“Kenya Rugby Union has informed us that with prevailing economic conditions and the looming general elections, in their Country, they are unable to play the Cup this year,” the statement revealed.
“As a partner, we duly understand and wish them the best in the remainder of their competitions. As we look forward to the rest of the international seasons for the Uganda teams still participating,”
“We regret the inconveniences that the cancellation will cause.” the statement concluded.
ELGON CUP 2022 CANCELLED. pic.twitter.com/kMAKjw5O2W
— Uganda Rugby Union (@UgandaRugby) July 15, 2022
It will be the third consecutive year that the competition is being canceled. It was last played in 2019, with Simbas beating Uganda 16-5 at Kyadondo Grounds to win the fourth consecutive Elgon Cup title. The Simbas had lost the first leg encounter held in Kisumu’s Mamboleo Grounds 16-13.
The Simbas and Uganda face off during the Rugby Africa Cup quarters with Simbas winning 42-7 thanks to six converted tries. John Okoth bagged a brace as Bethuel Anami, Samuel Asati, Teddy Akala and Thomas Okeyo scored a try each.
