Kenya Simbas head coach has unveiled a 33-man squad set to participate in a one-month high-performance training camp in South Africa as the team gears up for the 2027 Rugby World Cup Qualifiers scheduled to be held in Uganda.
The final squad was selected from an initial group of 53 players, following a training match against UAE Rugby on May 24 at the RFUEA Grounds. The match served as the culmination of an intensive week-long training camp held in Kakamega, which was used to evaluate both established players and newcomers vying for spots in the national team.
The training camp in South Africa will see the Simbas test their mettle against formidable provincial sides including the SWD Eagles, Blue Bulls, and Sanlam Boland Cavaliers. The aim is to fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming Rugby Africa Cup, a key qualifier event on the road to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
The squad is a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, offering a balance of experience and youthful energy. Captain George Nyambua will lead the group, which includes notable call-ups such as Samuel Ovwamu and Collins Indeche. Veterans John Okoth, Samuel Asati, and Bethwel Anami have also been recalled after featuring in the previous World Cup qualifying campaign in 2023.
The selection process was highly competitive, with an emphasis on current form, discipline, and overall contribution to team dynamics. Players not selected remain on standby and could be called upon if needed during the build-up to the qualifiers.
The players will depart for South Africa later this week. Once there, they will be joined by South African-based players David Bunduki and Thomas Okeyo, both of whom ply their trade with Griffons RFC. Also expected to link up with the squad is Hillary Mwanjilwa, who is recovering from an injury and working towards full fitness in time for the qualifiers.
The training camp is seen as a critical phase in the Simbas’ journey to the 2027 Rugby World Cup, offering an opportunity to build team cohesion, enhance technical skills, and expose the players to high-level competitive action.
Kenya Simbas 33-Man Squad for South Africa Training Camp:
- Ephraim Oduor – Kabras Sugar RFC
- Edward Mwaura – Kabras Sugar RFC
- Eugene Sifuna – Kabras Sugar RFC
- Teddy Akala – Kabras Sugar RFC
- Griffin Musila – KCB RFC
- Wilhite Mususi – KCB RFC
- Vincent Mwikhali – Menengai Oilers RFC
- Melvin Thairu – Gura Humorului Rugby Club
- Hibrahim Ayoo – Menengai Oilers RFC
- Brian Juma – Kabras Sugar RFC
- Andycole Omolo – KCB RFC
- Emanuel Silungi – KCB RFC
- George Nyambua – Kabras Sugar RFC (Captain)
- Patrick Sabatia – Kabras Sugar RFC
- Elvis Olukusi – KCB RFC
- Collins Indeche – Kabras Sugar RFC
- Bethwel Anami – MLSGP 78
- Elkeans Musonye – Menengai Oilers RFC
- Obat Kuke – Blak Blad RFC
- Samuel Asati – KCB RFC
- Samson Onsomu – Menengai Oilers RFC
- Brian Tanga – Kabras Sugar RFC
- Barry Young – Kabras Sugar RFC
- Brian Wahinya – KCB RFC
- Griffin Chao – Kabras Sugar RFC
- Beldad Ogeta – Menengai Oilers RFC
- Walter Okoth – Kabras Sugar RFC
- Samuel Ovwamu – Menengai Oilers RFC
- Bryceson Adaka – Kabras Sugar RFC
- John Okoth – Menengai Oilers RFC
- Tyson Juma – KCB RFC
- Timothy Omela – Menengai Oilers RFC
- Derrick Ashihundu – Kabras Sugar RFC
To be joined in South Africa by: - David Bunduki – Griffons RFC
- Thomas Okeyo – Griffons RFC
- Hillary Mwanjilwa – Kabras Sugar RFC
With the Rugby Africa Cup approaching, the Simbas aim to capitalize on the quality training and fixtures in South Africa to mold a squad capable of returning to the global stage in 2027.
