Simbas on a mauling mission against Elephants in last Currie Cup clash

The men's national rugby 15s side, Kenya Simbas, will have a chance to close out their inaugural Currie Cup Division One tournament in style when they host South African outfit Eastern Province Elephants at the RFUEA Grounds on Saturday afternoon.

After eight matches played, this will be Simbas' last match in the South African second-tier tournament before they shift their focus to the crucial 2023 Rugby World Cup Qualifiers set for France from 1-10 July.

Ahead of the game, head coach Paul Odera made seven changes to the side that put in an impressive 51-34 winning display against Leopards last weekend at the same venue.

Shujaa's all time top try scoring ace Collins Injera has been drafted in the starting squad in what will be his maiden appearance in the tournament and his first feature in the 15s side since 2018.

KCB winger Jacob Ojee has also been introduced on the wings with seasoned campaigner, Darwin Mukidza rounding off the back three as he maintains his spot after shining last weekend. Ojee and Injera come in the place of Derrick Ashihundu and Beldad Ogeta.

Kenya Simbas prey on Leopards in historic Currie Cup Nairobi clash

John Okoth and Vincent Onyala maintain their midfield partnership with half backs Samuel Asati and Dominic Coulson completing the Simbas starting backline.

Patrick Ouko, Brian Waraba and Ephraim Oduor are the starting front row with Malcolm Onsando and Thomas Okeyo the designated locks as George Nyambua, Martin Owila and Bethuel Anami make up the back row.

Commenting on the build up to this fixture, Odera said, “It has been a fantastic week, obviously with every win, there is always the confidence that comes into the team and after last week’s performance, the mood in camp has been very buoyant as expected and it has been quite a challenge to point out to the boys that there is still a lot to do. “

“We are reminding the players that good teams produce good performances week in, week out. They need to prove to themselves, the coaching staff and Kenyans that they can put in a good performance for the second consecutive week. We do not have Eugene Sifuna as he has gone to deal with his academic commitments," added Odera.

Elephants Assistant Coach Zane Bosch said, "It is a very important match for us as we are playing in the semifinal next Friday, so we are using this match as a preparation towards that fixture. The aim is to come and do as best as we can and build a good platform going forward.”

The match will kick off at 1500 EAT.

Simbas Match day Squad.

15.Darwin Mukidza, 14. Jacob Ojee, 13. Vincent Onyala, 12. John Okoth, 11. Collins Injera, 10. Dominic Coulson, 9. Samuel Asati, 1. Patrick Ouko, 2. Brian Waraba, 3. Ephraim Oduor, 4. Malcolm Onsando, 5. Thomas Okeyo, 6. George Nyambua, 7. Martin Owila, 8. Bethuel Anami

REPLACEMENTS 16. Teddy Akala, 17. Edward Mwaura, 18. Joseph Odero, 19. Brian Juma, 20. Davis Chenge, 21. Brian Tanga, 22. Bryceson Adaka, 23. Andrew Matoka

EP Elephants

15. Mbembe Payi, 14. Davian Swanepoel, 13. Athenkosi Mayinje, 12. Riaan Arends, 11. Rodney Damons, 10. Mattheus Garrick, 9. Rouche Nel, 1. Sibusiso Lali, 2. Duan Du Plessis, 3. Sive Mazosiwe, 4. Johannes Huisamen, 5. Jaco Wilemse, 6. Diego Williams, 7. Gerrit Huisamen, 8. Athenkosi Manentsa

REPLACEMENTS 16. Mzwanele Besman, 17. Roche van Zyl, 18. Viaan Wolmarans, 19. Lungi Mbiko, 20. Arnold Kleyn, 21. Sachin Toring, 22. Merlynn Pieterse, 23. Aya Oliphant