The 2027 Rugby World Cup dream is now firmly in sight for the Kenya Simbas, as Head Coach Jerome Paarwater today, July 1st, 2025, unveiled a formidable 28-man squad set to depart for Uganda.
Their mission: to secure a coveted spot at rugby’s pinnacle event. This announcement follows an intensive and highly beneficial one-month high-performance camp in South Africa, where the team underwent rigorous training and played nine crucial matches.
“The guys are looking well prepared and ready for the tournament in Uganda,” stated a confident Jerome Paarwater. “We’re glad that we don’t have any serious injuries within the team. A lot of lessons were learned in South Africa, and the players bonded very well, which significantly improves our teamwork both on and off the field.”
The squad boasts a blend of seasoned campaigners and exciting new blood. Four fresh faces – Vincent Mwikhali, Patrick Sabatia, David Bunduki, and Samuel Ovwamu – have earned their call-ups, having impressed immensely during the South Africa tour.
Their inclusion injects a “fresh feel within the set up,” according to Team Manager Jimmy Mnene, who expressed full confidence in the selected side. Key returnees to the final squad include Thomas Okeyo, Samuel Asati, Jone Kubu, and John Okoth, adding vital experience to the mix.
The Simbas face a challenging but clear path in the qualifiers, which are structured as a knockout format. Their campaign kicks off on Tuesday, July 8th, with a high-stakes clash against hosts Uganda at the Mandela National Stadium.
A victory there will see them progress to face either Zimbabwe or Morocco on July 13th in another decisive encounter.
This meticulously planned preparation, combining international exposure with tactical refinement, underscores Kenya’s ambition to qualify for the Rugby World Cup.
With a strong blend of local talent, particularly from powerhouse clubs like Kabras Sugar RFC and Menengai Oilers, the Simbas are poised to unleash their full potential on the Ugandan stage. The nation holds its breath, ready to cheer on our Simbas as they chase World Cup glory.
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