Simbas Face Tricky Senegal in Rugby Africa Cup Opener

The Kenya Simbas are set for a challenging encounter as they kick off their Rugby Africa Cup campaign against Senegal in Kampala this Saturday. This match marks the second clash between the two teams in just three years, with Senegal previously pulling off a surprising 20-19 victory over Kenya during the Rugby World Cup pre-qualifiers in 2021.

The stakes are high for this opening match as it has significant implications for seeding in next year’s Rugby World Cup qualifiers. Kenya’s coach, Jerome Paarwater, is taking no chances and has assembled his strongest squad for the game.

“I am happy with the team we have selected for Saturday,” Paarwater said following the Captain’s Run on Friday morning. “We have selected the strongest possible team in the setup, understanding that this won’t be an easy match. I’m confident we can get points from this game.”

Paarwater’s confidence stems from the extensive preparation his team has undergone, including two training camps in June. However, he remains mindful of Senegal’s strengths. “It’s not lost on us that they beat us in 2021. They have a strong set-piece, good ball carriers, and dynamism in the forward pack. However, we also have our strengths,” he added.

Paarwater believes that the key to victory will be dominating the forward exchanges. “It will be a physical game. If we can get front-foot ball from our forwards and win the gain-line battle, we will carry the day,” he said.

In the forwards, Vice-captain Eugene Sifuna will lead the front row alongside Kabras teammates Ephraim Oduor and Hillary Mwanjilwa. Menengai Oilers’ Ibrahim Ayoo and Hillary Odhimabo will form the second row, while skipper George Nyambua will team up with Jeanson Misoga and Thomas Okeyo in the back row.

The backs will be spearheaded by veteran scrumhalf Samson Onsomu, who will partner with Barry Robinson at flyhalf. The midfield will see Walter Okoth and Bryceson Adaka starting, with Beldad Ogeta, Derrick Ashiundu, and Timothy Omela completing the back three.

On the bench, Paarwater has opted for a 6-2 split, including forwards Malcolm Onsando, Wilhite Mususi, Griffin Musila, Elkeans Musonye, Obat Kuke, and Edward Mwaura, alongside backs Abutwalib Wesonga and Richel Wangila.

The match is scheduled to kick off at noon, East African Time. Earlier in the day, Namibia will face Burkina Faso at 10 am, followed by Algeria versus Cote d’Ivoire at 2 pm. Hosts Uganda will take on Zimbabwe in a highly anticipated clash at 4 pm.

The tournament’s semifinals are set for Wednesday, with the final scheduled for July 28. As the Rugby Africa Cup unfolds, all eyes will be on how the Simbas fare against their formidable Senegalese opponents.