Chipu ready to roar in Scotland

Kenya's U20 rugby team, Chipu, is gearing up for another shot at glory on the international stage. The World Rugby U20 Trophy, set for Edinburgh Stadium in Scotland from July 1-17, beckons, and the young Kenyan lions are roaring with confidence.

This tournament marks Chipu's fourth appearance at the U20 Trophy, having previously showcased their talent in 2009 (Nairobi), 2019 (Brazil), and 2023 (Nairobi).

This year carries extra weight as the winner of the U20 Trophy will secure a coveted spot in the pinnacle of U20 rugby – the 2025 World Rugby Junior Championship.

Coach Simon Jawichre has instilled a winning mentality in his squad. The team dominated the Rugby Africa U20 Barthes Trophy in April with a 28-13 victory over Zimbabwe and remains unchanged.

This continuity provides a strong foundation, boasting nine returning players from the 2023 U20 Trophy campaign. Names like Geylord Ngasi, Andycole Omolo, and Michael Wamalwa will be key in steering the team to victory.

While acknowledging the limited time spent in residential training camps, the tactician was confident the team would deliver. Matches against Kenya's national team, the Simbas, have provided valuable experience, sharpening Chipu's skills and game sense.

Captain Edmond Omondi echoes the team's unwavering spirit: "Winning the Barthes Trophy gave us immense confidence. We are ready to give our best shot and aim for the top prize in Scotland. Our mental fortitude will be crucial as we navigate the challenges of the tournament."

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The road to victory won't be easy. Chipu faces a diverse pool of competitors, including tournament debutants Netherlands and a strong Uruguayan team, the 2023 runners-up, as well as the USA.

The Kenyan rugby fraternity is abuzz with anticipation. Chipu's dominance in the Barthes Trophy ignited a fire of hope. Fans across the nation will be glued to their screens, cheering on their young heroes as they strive to etch their name in rugby history.

Can they claw their way to the top and secure their place among the world's elite U20 rugby teams? Only time will tell, but one thing's for certain – Chipu is ready to roar.

They depart from the country tonight (June 27).

In Pool A, host Scotland will compete against Japan, Hong Kong, and Samoa.Teams will play in a round-robin format during the group stage to determine the final pool rankings. The final rankings will determine the matchups: the pool toppers will compete in the final, runners-up will face off in the bronze final, third-placed teams will battle for fifth place, and the bottom-placed teams will compete for seventh place.

Kenya U20, commonly known as Chipu, will tackle Uruguay in their opener on Tuesday, July 2, at 4:30 p.m. E.A.T. In their second match, Chipu will face the Netherlands on Sunday, July 7, at 9:45 p.m. E.A.T. Their final pool match will be against the USA on Friday, July 12, 2024.

CHIPU SQUAD:

Darrel Oluoch, Ian Nyandusi, Bramwel Mate, Brian Shile, Geylord Ngasi, Hafidh Mohammed, Eugene Etali, Cleyn Okumbi, Andycole Omolo, Eddy Otieno, Iddo Kuta, Wycliffe Ogutu, Nathan Tsindoli, Willy Tino, Edmond Omondi, Patrick Wainaina, Benedict Muiruri, Faran Juma, Philip Okeyo, Alvin Khavoli, Brian Kiptoo, Dennis Ndayala, Kipchirchir Bett, Elvis Otete, Eugene Ojiambo, Jackson Siketi, Michael Wamalwa, James Olela

NON-TRAVELLING RESERVES:

Jeffrey Namiti, John Asega, Jeff Maina, Rogers Omanyi

MANAGEMENT:

Simon Jawichre (Head Coach), Qondani Katywa (Assistant Coach), Kenny Andola (Assistant Coach), Williams Motto (Strength & Conditioning Coach), Philip Wamae (Team Manager), Wacera Githua (Assistant Team Manager), Aysha Omar (Team Doctor), Samuel Ochieng

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