Eight players to debut in Kenya's forthcoming JP Botha African Cup tour

Managing Director Admedia Communications Jacob Ouma after presenting a dummy cheque worth Sh5Million to John Mbai (left) Director of Rugby and Ecosystems development in Nairobi during cheque presentation and announcement of players ahead of JP Botha African Cup in South Africa.[Jonah Onyango,Standard]

Kenya Rugby League team has called up eight new players in the forthcoming tour against South African Rhinos in the upcoming JP Botha African Cup.

The Kenyan contingent, known for their tenacity and sportsmanship, will face their opponents at the Naka Bulle RC in Wonderboom South on the 8th November 2023, followed by a match at Grizzlers RLC in Pretoria West on November 11th.

 Kenya Rugby League Federation (KRLF) Director of Rugby and Ecosystem Development John Mbai noted that the games are pivotal for the country, as they represent not only a chance for winning but also an opportunity to showcase the spirit and skill of Kenyan rugby on an international platform.

The new eight players making the team are Lawrence Okello (Ruffians), Iddo Kuta (Winam), Victor Ndungu (Ruffians), Patrick Mwakina (Wolves) Nick Tom Opiyo (Winam) Sollo Mbugua Kevin (AP Warriors), Kelly Omari (Wolves) and Steve Muniafu (Harlequins Rugby League SA).

The team will be captained by Dennish Ndinya who plays for AP Warriors.

Captain Ndinya aka "Warlord" exuded confidence that Kenya will perform well.

Ndinya: "We xpect good results in South Africa. Our opponents are rankws 26th in the world and we are in 31st, so they should get ready for action as we are well prepared to bring home a win."

Admedia Communications announced a comprehensive sponsorship and partnership agreement with KRFL.

Managing Director Admedia Communications Jacob Ouma (left) present a dummy cheque worth Sh5Million to John Mbai Director of Rugby and Ecosystems development in Nairobi during cheque presentation and announcement of players ahead of JP Botha African Cup in South Africa.[Jonah Onyango,Standard]

Jacob Ouma, the Managing Director of Admedia Communications said the strategic alliance follows the Kenyan team’s challenging matches against in the upcoming JP Botha African Cup.

Admedia Communications, a strategic communications agency in Kenya’s public relations and communications space, has pledged both cash and communication services support. This generous sponsorship is aimed at a commitment to foster sports talent and promote the dynamic culture of rugby in Kenya.

“Supporting the KRLF is an honor and aligns with our vision of empowering communities through sports. We believe in the potential of the Kenyan team and are excited to be a part of their journey to success in the JP Botha African Cup,” stated Ouma.

Adding to this sentiment, KRLF’s  Mbai expressed his gratitude, stating: “We are immensely grateful to Admedia Communications for their generous support. This partnership is a game-changer for us, providing the means to elevate our game and bring international attention to the talent we have here in Kenya. It goes beyond just a sponsorship; it’s a vote of confidence in our players and the future of rugby league in our country.”

The official announcement of this partnership took place on Monday, 6th November 2023, at the Admedia offices at Flamingo Towers, Upperhill, Nairobi.

The KRLF was established in 2019, as the pivotal body for rugby league management and development in Kenya, holding an esteemed Affiliate Membership with the International Rugby League Federation.

Its core mission is to foster an inclusive environment where rugby league can prosper, reaching individuals from diverse backgrounds nationwide.

Mbali added that the KRLF is dedicated to the continuous professional development of its personnel, while actively forging strategic alliances that enhance the organisation’s capabilities and worth.

KRLF TEAM TO SOUTHAFRICA

1. Lawrence Okello* (Ruffians)
2. Ramadhan Masete (Winam)
3. Brian Mutua (Rhynos)
4. Collins Ochieng (Wolves)
5. Paul Seda (Winam)
6. Dennish Ndinya (AP Warriors)
7. Lucky Byron (Ruffians)
8. Iddo Kuta (Winam)*
9. Victor Ndungu (Ruffians) *
10. Raymond Ekutu (Rhynos)
11. James Maranga (Winam)
12. Patrick Mwakina (Wolves) *
13. Wyclife Ratemo (AP Warriors)
14. Nick Tom Opiyo (Winam)*
15. Sollo Mbugua Kevin (AP Warriors)*
16. Kelly Omari (Wolves)*
17. Steve Muniafu (Harlequins Rugby League SA)*