Kenya’s Under-20 rugby team, affectionately known as Chipu, is gearing up for the Rugby Africa U20 Barthes Trophy in Harare, Zimbabwe, with head coach Simon Jawichre announcing a formidable 28-man squad for the tournament.
Leading the charge will be Edmond Omondi, who will captain the squad which boasts a mix of experience and emerging talent.
Notable inclusions are Edmond Omondi, Geylord Ngasi, Andycole Omolo, and Iddo Kuta, all returning players from last year’s World Rugby U20 Trophy held in Nairobi.
Additionally, standout performers Alvin Khavoli and Philip Okeyo from the Kenya Cup are set to make their mark on the international stage.
The competition, set to kick off on April 20 and run until April 28, will see four nations battle it out in a round-robin format. Alongside hosts Zimbabwe, Kenya faces tough competition from Namibia and Tunisia.
The stakes are high, with the top team securing Africa’s berth at the World Rugby U20 Trophy later this year in Scotland.
Chipu’s campaign begins with a clash against Namibia on April 20, followed by a showdown with Tunisia on 24 April, before concluding with a potentially decisive encounter against defending champions Zimbabwe on 28 April.
Coach Jawichre expressed confidence in the squad, highlighting their preparations and determination to excel on the continental stage.
With a blend of seasoned players and promising talents, Chipu aims to showcase the growing strength of Kenyan youth rugby and bring home the coveted Barthes Trophy.
The team, accompanied by a dedicated management team including Team Manager Philip Wamae and Physio Samuel Ochieng, is set to depart on Thursday morning brimming with optimism and a hunger for success.
All eyes will be on Chipu as they embark on this pivotal journey to Harare, determined to make their mark and ignite national pride in Kenyan rugby.
Chipu Squad | Barthes U20 Trophy 2024 | 20-28 April | Harare, Zimbabwe
Darrel Oluoch, Ian Nyandusi, Bramwel Mate, Brian Shile, Geylord Ngasi, Hafidh Mohammed, Eugene Etali, Cleyn Okumbi, Andycole Omolo, Eddy Otieno, Iddo Kuta, Wycliffe Ogutu, Nathan Tsindoli, Willy Tino, Edmond Omondi (captain), Patrick Wainaina, Benedict Muiruri, Faran Juma, Philip Okeyo, Alvin Khavoli, Brian Kiptoo, Dennis Ndayala, Kipchirchir Bett, Elvis Otete, Eugene Ojiambo, Jackson Siketi, Michael Wamalwa, James Olela
MANAGEMENT Simon Jawichre (Head Coach), Philip Wamae (Team Manager), Samuel Ochieng (Physio)
