4 changes for Kenya Lionesses ahead of clash with South Africa
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 10.06.25. | 21:15
The Lionesses are looking to build on the momentum following their emphatic 28-5 victory over hosts Madagascar on Saturday, 7 June
Kenya Lionesses head coach Simon Odongo has rung the changes ahead of their Rugby Africa Women’s Cup clash against South Africa, set for Wednesday, 10 June, at Stade Makis in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
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The match kicks off at 1300 hours EAT.
The Lionesses are looking to build on the momentum following their emphatic 28-5 victory over hosts Madagascar on Saturday, 7 June.
Naomi Jelagat earns a starting nod in the lock position, replacing Phoebe Akinyi, who is sidelined due to a concussion picked up during the win over Madagascar.
This is the only change in the forward pack’s starting lineup, with the rest of the front eight maintaining their positions.
The backline sees two key positional shifts. Versatile playmaker Grace Okulu moves from fly-half to outside centre, making room for Moreen Muritu to take the helm at fly-half.
Faith Livoi slots in at inside centre, while experienced utility back Stella Wafula shifts to the blindside wing.
In the back row, there is a switch in roles between skipper Enid Ouma and Naomi Amuguni, with Ouma now taking up the left flank and Amuguni moving to the open side.
The ever-reliable Sheila Chajira remains at number eight.
The Lionesses’ lineup features a blend of youth and experience. The front row comprises Natasha Emali, Naomi Muhanji, and Jane Chanya, while Maureen Chebet (vice-captain) pairs with Jelagat in the second row.
Ouma continues to lead the side from the loose forwards.
Vice-captain Edith Nariaka retains her spot at scrum-half and will link up with Muritu in the halves.
The back three features Wafula on the left wing, Freshia Awino on the right, and Sinaida Nyachio at fullback.
Coach Odongo also made adjustments on the bench, handing utility forward Mitchell Akinyi her chance as she replaces Jelagat, who moves into the starting XV. Angel Charity Juma comes in as the utility back, taking over from Diana Awino.
“Our aim is to ensure that at least each travelling member gets some game time because they worked hard to be part of this squad,” Odongo said.
Lionesses squad for South Africa clash:
Starting XV:
1.Natasha Emali 2. Naomi Muhanji 3. Jane Chanya 4. Maureen Chebet (VC) 5. Naomi Jelagat 6. Enid Ouma (C) 7. Naomi Amuguni 8. Sheila Chajira 9. Edith Nariaka (VC) 10. Moreen Muritu 11. Stella Wafula 12. Faith Livoi 13. Grace Okulu 14. Freshia Awino 15. Sinaida Nyachio
Replacements: 16. Knight Otwoma 17. Noleen Khalenyi 18. Sheila Wesa 19. Mitchell Akinyi 20. Doris Kimani 21. Ann Njeri 22. Christabel Lindo 23. Juma Angel Charity
