Kenya’s national 15s rugby side, the Simbas, has kicked off rigorous training sessions in preparation for their November test matches, set to be part of the Victoria Cup tournament in Uganda.
Head coach Jerome Paarwater has assembled a 38-man squad for the training camp, taking his first look at the team since assuming the role in March of this year. The squad is dedicating itself to training in Kakamega, Kenya, as they gear up for the upcoming fixtures.
Coach Paarwater shared his perspective on the team’s readiness, stating, “I think the guys are obviously glad and excited to be back at the training camp, training for the Victoria Cup. Our first game is against Zambia, and our next game is against Uganda. After the Currie Cup, there was a long layoff, and the guys are happy to get into the squad and are also fortunate to have most of the guys without injuries and still ready to play.”
He also mentioned that the timing is conducive for the players, and they are motivated to participate before the Kenya Cup commences, allowing them to focus on both international and domestic games.
Coach Paarwater, along with assistant coaches Carlos Katywa from Kabras Sugar and Curtis Olago from KCB, aspires to assemble a competitive team capable of achieving positive outcomes in the upcoming Victoria Cup and Elgon Cup matches scheduled for next month.
In preparation for the Victoria Cup, the Simbas are scheduled to engage in a friendly match against Kabras.
Their first official match in the tournament will be against Zambia at the Kyadondo grounds in Kampala on November 1, 2023.
