On 1st July 2025, the Kenya Simbas management led by Jerome Paarwater announced the 28-man squad that is heading to Uganda for the 2027 Rugby World Cup Qualifier.
Prior to the announcement, the team held a one-month long High-Performance camp in South Africa, during this period, they played 9 matches with various teams. “The guys are looking well prepared and ready for the tournament in Uganda. We’re glad that we don’t have any serious injuries within the team,” said Jerome.
“There have been a lot of lessons learned in South Africa and the players bonded very well with each other and this improves the teamwork both on and off the field.” He added.
The squad sees the introduction of four fresh faces who will be out to make a name for themselves, these are Vincent Mwikhali, Patrick Sabatia, David Bunduki and Samuel Ovwamu. They all made a clear statement while in South Africa by raising their hand for selection. Thomas Okeyo, Samuel Asati, Jone Kubu and John Okoth are also back in the final squad.
“We are confident in the squad that has been selected and we are confident that we have selected the best team we have. The four new players will bring a fresh feel within the set up.” added Jimmy Mnene, Kenya Simbas Team Manager.
The Simbas will kick off their campaign on Tuesday 8th July in a knockout match against Uganda after which they will face either Zimbabwe or Morocco on 13th July. The matches will be held at the Mandela National Stadium.
Ephraim Oduor(Kabras Sugar RFC), Edward Mwaura (Kabras Sugar) Eugene Sifuna (Kabras Sugar RFC) Teddy Akala (Kabras Sugar RFC) Wilhite Mususi (KCB RFC) Vincent Mwikhali (Menengai Oilers RFC) Hibrahim Ayoo (Menengai Oilers RFC) Thomas Okeyo (NovaVit Griffons) Andycole Omolo (KCB RFC)
Emanuel Silungi (KCB RFC) George Nyambua (Kabras Sugar RFC) Patrick Sabatia (Kabras Sugar RFC) David Bunduki (NovaVit Griffons) Obat Kuke (Blak Blad RFC) Bethuel Anami (MLSGP 78) Elkeans Musonye (Menengai Oilers RFC), Samuel Asati (KCB RFC) Brian Tanga (Kabras Sugar RFC) Barry Young (Kabras Sugar RFC) Brian Wahinya (KCB RFC) Griffin Chao (Kabras Sugar RFC) Walter Okoth (Kabras Sugar RFC) Samuel Ovwamu (Menengai Oilers RFC) Bryceson Adaka (Kabras Sugar RFC) John Okoth (Menengai Oilers RFC) Timothy Omela (Menengai Oilers RFC) Jone Kubu (Kabras Sugar RFC) Derrick Ashihundu (Kabras Sugar RFC)
