Elgon Cup 2024: Hillary Mwanjilwa, Edward  Mwaura in final squad for epic battle against Uganda

Kenya Simbas' Brian Wahinya leads jubilant teammates in celebration after a hard-fought victory against Uganda Rugby at RFUEA Grounds, Nairobi, on November 9, 2024.©Imago

Elgon Cup 2024: Hillary Mwanjilwa, Edward Mwaura in final squad for epic battle against Uganda

Festus Chuma 16:31 - 15.11.2024

Simbas Head Coach Jerome Paarwater has named a consistent starting squad with bench reinforcements for the Elgon Cup decider.

Kenya Simbas Head Coach Jerome Paarwater has confirmed the final squad to face Uganda Rugby Cranes in the highly anticipated Elgon Cup return leg, set for Saturday, November 16.

The South African tactician has shown confidence in the side that narrowly edged Uganda 27-25 in the first leg in Nairobi opting to maintain the starting lineup that delivered the crucial win.

However, Paarwater has made strategic adjustments on the bench, bringing in props Edward Mwaura and Hillary Mwanjilwa to add depth and firepower.

The Simbas’ front row remains unchanged with Ephraim Oduor and Wilhite Mususi retaining their positions as props while vice-captain Eugene Sifuna continues to anchor the scrum as hooker.

The formidable second-row pairing of Hillary Odhiambo and Emmanuel Silungi has also been retained with Odhiambo’s stellar performance last weekend earning him a well-deserved place.

Odhiambo’s commanding display saw him named Player of the Match and his partnership with Silungi is expected to provide stability in the lineouts.

In the back row, captain George Nyambua leads from the front supported by Andy Cole Omolo and Jeanson Misoga.

The halfback pairing of Brian Wahinya and Barry Robinson remains intact, offering continuity and tactical sharpness.

Wahinya’s quick distribution and Robinson’s composure at fly-half will be pivotal in orchestrating the Simbas' game plan.

The midfield partnership of Walter Okoth and Tyson Maina is expected to bring both physicality and flair, while the back three of Alfred Orege, Griffin Chao, and Timothy Okwemba provide speed and attacking options.

The bench now features the inclusions of Edward Mwaura and Hillary Mwanjilwa, who bring fresh energy and experience to the front row.

They join Griffin Musila, Hibrahim Ayoo, Elkeans Musonye, Samson Onsomu, Jone Kubu, and Paul Mutsami as impactful replacements ready to influence the game if called upon.

Kenya will look to build on their slim advantage from the first leg and capitalize on their home performance as they aim to retain the prestigious Elgon Cup.

Uganda, on the other hand, will be eager to overturn the deficit, setting the stage for a fierce and enthralling encounter.

The Simbas are banking on the leadership of captain Nyambua and the tactical guidance of Paarwater to inspire the team to glory.

Kenya Simbas

1. Ephraim Oduor 2. Eugene Sifuna – VC 3. Wilhite Mususi Emmanuel Silungi 5. Hillary Odhiambo 6. George Nyambua – C 7. Andycole Omolo 8. Jeanson Misoga 9. Brian Wahinya 10. Barry Young – VC 11. Alfred Orege 12. Walter Okoth 13. Tyson Maina 14. Griffin Chao 15. Timothy Omela

16. Griffin Musila 17. Edward Mwaura 18. Hillary Mwanjilwa 19. Hibrahim Ayoo 20. Elkeans Musonye 21. Samson Onsomu 22. Jone Kubu 23. Paul Mutsami

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