One change as Kenya Simbas name squad for Rugby Africa Cup semifinal clash
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Reading Time: 2min | Sat. 12.07.25. | 12:48
Following a gritty 32-24 quarterfinal win over hosts Uganda, the technical bench has kept faith with the core squad
Kenya Simbas head coach Jerome Paarwater has named a largely unchanged squad to face defending champions Zimbabwe Sables in the Rugby Africa Cup semifinal, slated for Sunday, 13 July at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda.
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The national men's 15s rugby side will have their match kick off at 1600 hours EAT.
Following a gritty 32-24 quarterfinal win over hosts Uganda, the technical bench has kept faith with the core squad, making only one change ahead of the crucial semifinal.
Winger Derrick Ashihundu returns to the starting XV, replacing Timothy Omela on the right wing. Ashihundu, known for his pace and power, will pair with Griffin Chao, who has already scored twice in this tournament, on the opposite flank.
Jone Kubu retains his place at fullback, with the midfield duo of Walter Okoth and Bryceson Adaka also keeping their spots.
Samuel Asati continues to pull the strings from scrum-half, while Barry Young remains at fly-half, providing leadership and tactical direction.
There are no changes among the forwards, with the coaching staff showing confidence in a unit that stood tall against Uganda.
Eugene Sifuna starts at hooker and will be assisted by Ephraim Oduor and Wilhite Mususi to provide a solid attacking platform.
Bethuel Anami anchors the back row at number eight, joined by Thomas Okeyo on the blindside and Patrick Sabatia, who earns only his second test cap on the openside flank.
Skipper George Nyambua and promising lock Andycole Omolo once again form the second row partnership, providing strength and lineout reliability.
The semifinal showdown carries major significance, with a spot in the Rugby Africa Cup final and a step closer to 2027 Rugby World Cup qualification on the line.
