KAMPALA — Kenya’s national rugby team, the Simbas, has confirmed its final 28-man squad for the 2027 Rugby World Cup qualifiers. The announcement was made Tuesday following an intense month-long High-Performance training camp in South Africa.
Head Coach Jerome Paarwater said the team is ready for the challenge ahead in Uganda. “The guys are looking well prepared and ready for the tournament in Uganda,” Paarwater stated. “We’re glad that we don’t have any serious injuries within the team.”
During the training camp, the Simbas played nine competitive matches against diverse opponents. Paarwater noted that the experience helped players build strong cohesion. “There have been a lot of lessons learned in South Africa. The players bonded very well, which improves teamwork both on and off the field.”
The final squad includes four first-time call-ups: Vincent Mwikhali and Samuel Ovwamu from Menengai Oilers RFC, Patrick Sabatia from Kabras Sugar RFC, and David Bunduki from NovaVit Griffons. Paarwater said these players stood out during the camp. “They made a clear statement by raising their hand for selection,” he said.
Veteran players returning to the squad include Thomas Okeyo, Samuel Asati, Jone Kubu, and John Okoth. The balance of youth and experience is expected to strengthen Kenya’s chances in the qualifiers.
Team Manager Jimmy Mnene said the squad was selected based on performance and readiness. “We are confident in the squad that has been selected. The four new players will bring a fresh feel within the setup,” Mnene said.
The Simbas open their qualification campaign with a knockout match against host nation Uganda on Tuesday, July 8, at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala. The winner will proceed to face either Zimbabwe or Morocco in the second round on Sunday, July 13.
The World Cup qualifiers are critical for Kenya, which is seeking its first appearance at rugby’s top global tournament. The squad represents players from Kenya’s top rugby clubs including Kabras Sugar RFC, KCB RFC, Menengai Oilers, and international side NovaVit Griffons.
Full 28-Man Kenya Simba’s Squad for 2027 RWC Qualifiers:
- Ephraim Oduor (Kabras Sugar RFC)
- Edward Mwaura (Kabras Sugar RFC)
- 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 (MSLGP 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)
The qualifiers serve as a pivotal opportunity for Kenya to assert itself on the global stage and secure a slot in the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
