Former Chipu captain joins Romanian Club
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 24.07.25. | 12:59
Wamalwa has enjoyed a swift rise through the ranks, first catching attention with his leadership during the 2023 World Rugby U20 Trophy in Nairobi, where he captained Kenya to a 5th-place finish
Former Kenya U20 rugby team captain Michael Wamalwa has secured a professional move to Romanian top-tier side CSM Știința Baia Mare, making history as the first Kenyan to join the decorated club.
The 20-year-old, who most recently led Chipu to victory in the 2024 Barthes Cup, joins Baia Mare from former Kenya Cup champions KCB Rugby.
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His move marks a significant step in his career and a historic milestone for the Romanian outfit.
“Welcome, Michael Wamalwa! CSM Știința Baia Mare warmly welcomes Michael Wamalwa, the first Kenyan-born player in the club’s history. Michael joins us from KCB RFC, a club renowned for its professionalism and contribution to Kenya’s national rugby teams, both in 15s and 7s,” the club announced in a statement.
Wamalwa has enjoyed a swift rise through the ranks, first catching attention with his leadership during the 2023 World Rugby U20 Trophy in Nairobi, where he captained Kenya to a 5th-place finish.
A year later, he once again donned the armband in Zimbabwe, guiding Chipu to Barthes Cup victory and earning qualification to the World Rugby U20 Championship in Scotland, Kenya’s first-ever appearance at the global showpiece.
Despite finishing eighth in the world tournament, Wamalwa’s brilliance stood out.
During the Barthes Cup campaign, he was named top try scorer after a dominant performance, particularly in the emphatic win over Zimbabwe.
“By the age of 20, Mike had already emerged as an up-and-coming player with two World Cup appearances under his belt. We wish him the best of luck in our team colours,” Baia Mare added.
The Romanian side, nicknamed “Zimbri” (Bison), competes in the Liga de Rugby Kaufland, Romania’s top division, and boasts a record nine championships, including a dominant four-title streak between 2019 and 2022.
Wamalwa now joins fellow Kenyans Malcolm Onsando, Melvin Thairu, Ian Njenga, and Cornelius Mokoro, who are also plying their trade in Romania.
His arrival at Baia Mare is expected to not only elevate his game but also open doors for more Kenyan players seeking opportunities in Europe.
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