Rugby: Kenya to clash with Uganda at Commonwealth Games

Shujaa's Alvin Otieno celebrates during Dubai Sevens.[Courtesy-World Rugby]

Kenya Sevens will renew their rivalry with Uganda at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games sevens rugby set to kick off this month at Coventry Stadium in England.

Kenya lost to Uganda 22-12 in the semi-finals of the Africa Rugby Sevens Cup in Kampala back in April this year and they will be seeking revenge against regional rivals.

Kenya ended up claiming bronze beating Zambia 19-12 in the event that doubled up as the 2022 Rugby World Cup Sevens Africa qualifier.

Uganda captured the title after beating Zimbabwe 28-0 in the final. Uganda, Zimbabwe and Kenya would qualify for the global event due for September 9 in South Africa.

Kenya and Uganda are in Group D that also has Jamaica and the 2014 silver medalists Australia.

Five times gold medalists New Zealand, who are also the defending champions will face off against 2018 bronze medalists England, Samoa and Sri Lanka in Group A.

African heavyweights South Africa will tackle Scotland, Tonga and Malaysia in Group B.

South Africa won gold in 2014 Glasgow, Scotland, having earlier secured bronze medals in 2002 Manchester and 2010 Delhi.

Two-time Olympic champions Fiji have been drawn against Canada, Wales and Zambia in Group C. 

Commonwealth Games pools

Group A: New Zealand, England, Samoa, Sri Lanka

Group B: South Africa, Scotland, Tonga, Malaysia

Group C: Fiji, Canada, Wales, Zambia

Group D: Australia, Kenya, Uganda, Jamaica