Reason for Beldad Ogeta and Samson Onsomu's omissions from Kenya Simbas squad
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 03.07.25. | 22:00
The duo will miss out on the continental showpiece despite being with the team in South Africa for a one-month camp
Kenya Simbas will head into the Rugby Africa Cup without two of their most dynamic players, Menengai Oilers’ duo of Beldad Ogeta and Samson Onsomu.
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The Rugby Africa Cup, set for Tuesday, 8 to Saturday, 19 July at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, doubles up as a qualifier for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
The duo will miss out on the continental showpiece despite being with the team in South Africa for a one-month camp.
With so much at stake, their absence left many Kenyan fans questioning, given the duo’s stellar form in the Kenya Cup.
According to Kenya Simbas Team Manager Jimmy Munene, the decision was dictated purely by medical concerns.
“Ogeta suffered a deep cut on the lip while the Simbas played against the Junior Boks in South Africa. That injury, which he is still recovering from, effectively ruled him out of the squad,” Munene said.
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Ogeta, known for his blistering pace and sharp finishing, had been seen as a potential game-changer for the Simbas on the wings. His absence will be deeply felt, especially against the physical opposition expected in Kampala.
Munene also confirmed that Onsomu, who has been a consistent presence in the Simbas setup, is recovering from a soft tissue injury that ruled him out of the tournament.
“Onsomu is sustaining a soft tissue injury which has prevented him from making the squad,” Munene noted.
Despite the setbacks, the team manager expressed full confidence in the squad chosen to represent Kenya.
“In terms of the players we have, I honestly believe, and to echo the words of the head coach, we have the best players we could have hoped for coming with us to Uganda,” he concluded.
Reigning Kenya Cup champions Kabras RFC have produced a staggering 11 players to the Simbas, including seasoned names like Ephraim Oduor, Eugene Sifuna, George Nyambua, Brian Tanga, and Jone Kubu.
KCB follows closely with five players, in the shape of Wilhite Mususi, Andycole Omolo, and Samuel Asati.
Menengai Oilers RFC continue to show their growth as a top-tier club, contributing six players, including Vincent Mwikhali, Elkeans Musonye, and John Okoth, three of whom are making their first senior Simbas appearances.
Griffons RFC, the South African-based club, adds international flair with David Bunduki and Thomas Okeyo earning call-ups.
Meanwhile, MLS GP 78, Blak Blad RFC, and newcomers from local development programs also feature, highlighting the depth and diversity of Kenya's rugby talent pool.
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