Kenya’s national Under-20 rugby team is gearing up for the 2025 Rugby Africa U20 Barthés Trophy, which kicks off in Harare, Zimbabwe, on April 20. The tournament, scheduled to run until April 28, will see Kenya face hosts Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Tunisia in a round-robin format, with the top team earning qualification to the World Rugby U20 Trophy set to be held in Scotland later this year.
A 28-man squad has been unveiled, showcasing a blend of seasoned players and fresh talent. Nine players return from the team that competed in the 2023 World Rugby U20 Trophy in Nairobi. These include team captain Edmond Omondi, along with Geylord Ngasi, Andycole Omolo, Iddo Kuta, Wycliffe Ogutu, Nathan Tsindoli, Patrick Wainaina, Faran Juma, Michael Wamalwa, and James Olela. The inclusion of standout Kenya Cup performers Alvin Khavoli and Philip Okeyo brings additional strength and dynamism to the side.
The coaching team, led by Simon Jawichre, expressed optimism about the team’s prospects despite facing some logistical challenges in the build-up. Assembling the squad was not without its difficulties, particularly concerning player documentation, but the team’s technical bench is confident that the group selected is well-prepared to deliver.
The head coach highlighted the squad’s balance in terms of skills and physical readiness, emphasizing that the team is not only focused on defending their title but also on making a mark in the competition. The players are said to be highly motivated, with the ambition to go one better than last year when Kenya finished as runners-up.
Kenya will begin their campaign on Saturday, April 20, against Namibia, a side known for its physicality and structured play. The second match is scheduled for Wednesday, April 24, against Tunisia, and the team will wrap up the tournament against Zimbabwe, the defending champions, on Sunday, April 28.
The round-robin nature of the tournament means every match will be crucial, with point differences likely to play a significant role in determining the final standings. Kenya will be looking to make strong starts and maintain consistency throughout the competition.
The team departs for Harare on Thursday morning. The technical bench traveling with the squad includes Head Coach Simon Jawichre, Team Manager Philip Wamae, and Physio Samuel Ochieng. Their experience and leadership will be critical in managing the players’ performance and recovery during the week-long tournament.
The full squad features 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 (captain), Patrick Wainaina, Benedict Muiruri, Faran Juma, Philip Okeyo, Alvin Khavoli, Brian Kiptoo, Dennis Ndayala, Kipchirchir Bett, Elvis Otete, Eugene Ojiambo, Jackson Siketi, Michael Wamalwa, and James Olela.
With a determined squad and a clear goal, Kenya’s U20 side is eager to rise to the occasion and reclaim the continental title, which would not only bring glory but also secure them a place on the global stage later in the year.
