Chipu keen on Zimbabwe revenge as team is named

Kenya U20 men’s team - Chipu - will on Sunday afternoon aim to get the better of their opponents Zimbabwe, as they face off in the World Rugby U20 Trophy fifth place playoff slated for Sunday afternoon at the Nyayo National Stadium.

Curtis Olago’s team secured their first win of the tournament last Tuesday after seeing off Pool B opponents Hong Kong China 22-16 to book a place in a repeat matchup against their African rivals.

The fact that the two sides faced off at the same venue exactly three months ago, when Zimbabwe emerged 28-7 winners in the Barthes Trophy finals, gives the Kenyan side extra motivation to win the game, as Olago admitted in the game’s buildup.

“There’s obviously something special, I’d call it a great rivalry between Kenya and Zimbabwe, be it in the sevens, U20s or senior levels,” the head coach said. “This match is no different and the boys are ready and motivated to set the record straight against Zimbabwe.”

On the team’s progress, he added: “We have grown with every game we have played, we are keen to close out our campaign on a high.”

Chipu keen on progress evaluation in repeat clash against Zimbabwe in U20 Trophy

At the same time, Olago will only make one change heading into the game, with Raphael Wanga returning to the squad in place of Eddy Wambugu to partner up with Mike Wamalwa in midfield.

On positional changes, Faran Juma will move from fullback to flyhalf, with the other seeing James Olela move from wing to fullback.

Zephenes Obwanga will on the other hand start on the bench in place of Brian Mwendwa who is not part of the match day squad.

SQUAD: James Olela, Victor Odhiambo, Mike Wamalwa (captain), Raphael Wanga, Alvin Mwamburi, Faran Juma, Patrick Wainaina, Geylord Ngasi, George Otieno, Mike Oduor, Edmond Omondi, Andycole Omolo, Laban Kipsang, Vincent Omondi, Jacktone Omondi.

REPLACEMENTS: Jeremy Odhiambo, Brian Makaya, Raymond Chacha, Stanslas Shikoli, James Tsinalo, Zephenes Obwanga, Eddy Wambugu, Spencer Davies.