2024 Rugby Africa Cup: Kenya Simbas squad for Senegal challenge announced

Kenya Simbas' head coach, Jerome Paarwater, has released the squad that will be in action against Senegal in the first match of the 2024 Rugby Africa Cup, slated for Saturday, July 20 at the iconic Mandela National Stadium.

The match will kick off at noon.

Paarwater has announced a formidable squad,a blend of experience and youthful energy.

Leading the charge is captain George Nyambua, whose leadership on and off the pitch will be crucial.

Nyambua is rich with experience, having played for Kabras RFC and has several Simbas appearances under his belt.

He will be deputised by Eugene Sifuna of Kabras RFC and Samson Onsomu of Menengai Oilers, ensuring robust leadership across the board.

Rugby Africa Men’s 7s: Morans bow out of Main Cup after defeat to South Africa

Sifuna starts at hooker and will be assisted by Ephraim Oduor and Hillary Mwanjilwa on the front row.

Ibrahim Ayoo and Hillary Odhiambo take charge of the engine room.

The back row consists of Nyambua, Thomas Okeyo, and Jeanson Misoga.

Talented halfbacks Onsomu and Jeanson Misoga will start at scrum half and flyhalf, respectively.

Timothy Omela starts at full-back and will be covered by speedsters Beldad Ogeta and Derrick Ashiundu on both wings. Walter Okoth and Bryceson Adaka will be at the centre.

The likes of Malcolm Onsando, Elkeans Musonye, Obat Kuke, and Richel Wangila will start from the bench.

The team is under the expert guidance of Paarwater, whose strategic acumen will be pivotal for the Simbas.

Kenya Simbas part of 6 African and European nations set for Africa Tour 15s Championship

Team Manager Jimmy Mnene and Physio Stephen Mankone complete the technical bench, ensuring that the players are well-prepared and in top physical condition.

A total of eight nations have confirmed their place in the tournament that is set to begin from the quarterfinal stage.

Simbas were the losing finalists to Namibia in 2022, granting the Southern African nation a ticket to the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Line up

1. Ephraim Oduor 2. Eugene Sifuna (VC) 3. Hillary Mwanjilwa 4. Ibrahim Ayoo; 5. Hilary Odhiambo 6. George Nyambu (C) 7. Thomas Okeyo 8. Jeanson Misoga 9. Samson Onsomu (VC) 10. Barry Robinson 11. Beldad Ogeta 12. Walter Okoth; 13. Bryceson Adaka 14. Derrick Ashiundu 15. Timothy Omela 16. Griffin Musila 17. Edward Mwaura 18. Wilhtie Mususi; 19. Malcolm Onsando 20. Elkeans Musonye; 21. Obat Kuke 22. Abutwalib Wesonga 23. Richel Wangila