Assistant coach Carlos Katywa from the national men’s rugby 15s team emphasizes that historical achievements will hold no significance when they confront Zambia in the forthcoming Victoria Cup tournament in Kampala.
Katywa stresses the team’s meticulous preparation for the three-nation tournament, solely focusing on securing victories in each match.
He emphasizes the importance of concentrating on strategies and processes, rather than dwelling on historical outcomes.
“The goal is to execute our strategy effectively. History tends to unfold itself. Our primary objective is to win all three games. We’re fully prepared and ready for the challenge,” stated Katywa.
The Victoria Cup, named after Lake Victoria in East Africa and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, typically features Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. During Kenya’s previous participation in 2019, the Simbas secured a second-place finish, missing out on the title due to away losses against Uganda and Zimbabwe.
Discussing the team’s preparations, Katywa reveals that most players were part of the Currie Cup this year, but financial difficulties led to their premature withdrawal. He notes that 95.5% of the squad remains consistent, except for players currently training with the national Sevens team for an upcoming tournament.
For the upcoming test match against Zambia, Katywa and assistant Curtis Olago have chosen a 23-man squad, with 13 players making their debut. George Nyambua, representing Kabras Sugar, will lead the team, which includes several debutants in the starting XV and on the bench.
Following the match against Zambia, the Simbas will face Uganda in the Elgon Cup, first in Uganda and then a week later in Kisumu.
Nyambua urges Kenyan fans in Uganda to support the team at the Kings Park Arena in Kampala, encouraging them to rally behind the team as they strive for a positive outcome in the tournament.
