Chipu will be looking to get the better of their African rivals Zimbabwe in the 5th place playoff as the World Rugby U20 Trophy comes to an end at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday 30 July 2023.
Head Coach Curtis Aluoch has hailed his side’s progress, saying, ““We have grown with every game we have played, we are keen to close out our campaign on a high.”
It will be recalled that the two sides faced off at the same venue exactly three months ago, Zimbabwe winning that encounter 28-7 to retain the Barthes Trophy.
Aluoch believes this serves as an extra source of motivation for the team, saying, “ There’s obviously something special, I’d call it a great rivalry between Kenya and Zimbabwe, be it in the sevens, U20s or senior levels. This match is no different and the boys are ready and motivated to set the record straight against Zimbabwe.”
There is one change to the Chipu side that started Tuesday’s 22-16 Pool B win over Hong Kong China as Raphael Wanga returns to partner captain Mike Wamalwa in midfield.
Faran Juma moves from fullback to flyhalf in one of two positional changes, the other seeing James Olela move from wing to fullback. Eddy Wambugu drops to the bench while Zephenes Obwanga starts on the bench in place of Brian Mwendwa who is not part of the match day squad for the fixture at kicks off at 1400hrs East Africa Time on Sunday.
KENYA U20 v ZIMBABWE U20 15. James Olela, 14. Victor Odhiambo, 13. Mike Wamalwa (captain), 12. Raphael Wanga, 11. Alvin Mwamburi, 10. Faran Juma, 9. Patrick Wainaina, 1. Geylord Ngasi, 2. George Otieno, 3. Mike Oduor, 4. Edmond Omondih, 5. Andycole Omolo, 6. Laban Kipsang, 7. Vincent Omondi, 8. Jacktone Omondi REPLACEMENTS 16. Jeremy Odhiambo, 17. Brian Makaya, 18. Raymond Chacha, 19. Stanslas Shikoli, 20. James Tsinalo, 21. Zephenes Obwanga, 22. Eddy Wambugu , 23. Spencer Davies
