Elgon Cup 2024: Kenya Simbas announce squad to face Uganda

Uganda captain Ivan Magomu (centre) in action against Kenya Simbas in Kisumu on November 11, 2023.[Uganda Rugby Union]

Kenya Simbas head coach Jerome Paarwater has named a strong 23-man squad blending seasoned veterans with new talent for the Elgon Cup opener against Uganda Cranes on Saturday at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi.

The team will be led by experienced skipper George Nyambua, with Eugene Sifuna and Barry Young serving as vice-captains, aiming to set the tone for Kenya's defense of the Elgon Cup title.

This year's squad promises fresh energy as Kenya Under-20 international Andycole Omolo, Tyson Maina, and Griffin Chao make their debut appearances.

The team will rely on the front-row power of Ephraim Oduor and Wilhite Mususi, with Sifuna stepping in at hooker to add depth and experience.

Emmanuel Silungi and Hillary Odhiambo are set to form a formidable second-row pairing, with Nyambua and Omolo adding strength to the back row. Jeanson Misoga rounds out the forward pack at number eight.

Paarwater's tactical lineup includes a half-back pairing of Brian Wahinya at scrum-half and Barry Young at fly-half, expected to dictate the pace of the game.

In midfield, Walter Okoth and newcomer Tyson Maina provide a dynamic partnership, while Alfred Orege and Griffin Chao occupy the wing positions.

Timothy Omela will take on the full-back duties, poised to anchor Kenya's defense against a competitive Uganda side.

The Elgon Cup, an annual rugby union competition between Kenya and Uganda, was first held as a friendly in 2004 and has grown to include women's and Under-20 categories.

Named after the iconic Mt. Elgon on the Kenya-Uganda border, the tournament fosters regional rivalry and serves as a stepping stone for international competitions.

Kenya leads the overall series, having won 10 out of the 17 tournaments, while Uganda has claimed victory seven times.

With Kenya ranked 32nd globally (52.55 points) and Uganda in 40th place (47.84 points), the Elgon Cup offers both teams an opportunity to improve their World Rugby rankings.

A win not only secures bragging rights but impacts future standings, with ranking points awarded based on the match result, opponent ranking, and winning margin.

The first leg in Nairobi will set the stage, with the second leg scheduled for November 16th in Kampala. Fans can expect an electric atmosphere as the Simbas aim to defend their title and extend Kenya's dominance in this storied rivalry.

Kenya Simbas Squad:

1. Ephraim Oduor
2. Eugene Sifuna (VC)
3. Wilhite Mususi
4. Emmanuel Silungi
5. Hillary Odhiambo
6. George Nyambua (C)
7. Andycole Omolo *
8. Jeanson Misoga
9. Brian Wahinya
10. Barry Young (VC)
11. Alfred Orege
12. Walter Okoth
13. Tyson Maina *
14. Griffin Chao *
15. Timothy Omela
16. Griffin Musila
17. Edward Mwaura
18. Hibrahim Ayoo
19. Ernest Obat Kuke
20. Elkeans Musonye
21. Samson Onsomu
22. Jone Kubu
23. Paul Mutsami