Experienced forward Knight Otwoma leads the Lionesses in their opening match of the World Rugby WXV3 campaign against Spain this Saturday at The Sevens Stadium in Dubai, UAE. Otwoma takes up the number eight position for this game, a departure from her usual role as a hooker in the front row. She joins a formidable backrow alongside Diana Kemunto and Michelle Akinyi, while Naomi Jelegat and Faith Livoi form a strong second row partnership.
The Lionesses front row is composed of Rose Otieno, Staycy Atieno, and vice-captain Natasha Emali. Lewin Amazimbi makes her test debut on the wing, lining up alongside Priscah Nyerere, while Freshia Awino takes on the fullback position. Diana Omosso assumes the role of starting scrumhalf, forming a crucial partnership with fly half Anne Goretti. In the midfield, Laureen Akoth and rookie Charity Juma combine their talents.
Among the replacements, Maureen Chebet, Edith Nariaka, and Agatha Jamari are all poised for their Lionesses test debuts. They are joined by Naomi Muhanji, Valentine Otieno, Hesla Khisa, and Winnie Owino.
The match is set to kick off at 4:00 pm EAT and will be available for live streaming on World Rugby’s dedicated platform, RugbyPass TV (https://rugbypass.tv).
Lionesses squad: 15. Freshia Awino, 14. Prisca Nyerere, 13. Charity Juma, 12. Laureen Akoth, 11. Lewin Amazimbi, 10. Ann Goretti, 9. Diana Omosso, 1. Rose Otieno, 2. Staycy Atieno, 3. Natasha Emali (V/C), 4. Naomi Jelagat, 5. Faith Livoi, 6. Michelle Akinyi, 7. Diana Kemunto, 8. Knight Otwoma (C) REPLACEMENTS 16. Naomi Muhanji, 17. Evelyn Kalemera, 18. Valentine Otieno, 19. Hesla Khisa, 20. Maureen Chebet, 21. Winnie Awino, 22. Edith Nariaka, 23. Agatha Jamari
