The Kenya Simbas are poised for a defining moment in their 2025 Rugby Africa Cup (RAC) journey as they prepare to face Zimbabwe’s Sables in a much-anticipated semi-final clash set for Sunday, July 13, at 4:00 p.m. EAT at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda.
The Simbas, under the guidance of Head Coach Jerome Paarwaters, are riding high after a spirited 32-24 victory over regional rivals Uganda Cranes in the quarter-finals last weekend. That performance, marked by discipline and cohesion, has not only advanced Kenya in the tournament but also reignited hopes of a return to the Rugby World Cup stage in 2027.
With the tournament doubling as a qualifying pathway to the global showpiece, every match is a final — a sentiment echoed by the team’s leadership.
“We are taking each game as a final. The boys understand what’s at stake, and we’re fully locked in for this challenge,” said Assistant Coach Carlos Katywa ahead of the Sunday battle.
Team News: One Change as Ashiundu Returns
Coach Paarwaters has named a largely unchanged starting XV, opting for consistency as Kenya eyes a third Rugby Africa Cup title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2011 and 2013.
The only alteration to the quarter-final squad sees Derrick Ashiundu return to the starting lineup, replacing Timothy Omela on the right wing. Ashiundu’s inclusion brings added experience and speed on the flank.
Griffin Chao, who has already crossed the whitewash twice in this year’s tournament, retains his spot on the left wing and will be a key attacking threat for the Simbas.
Kenya Simbas Starting XV:
- Forwards: Ephraim Oduor, Eugene Sifuna, Wilhite Mususi
- Second Row & Loose Forwards: George Nyambua (C), Andycole Omolo, Thomas Okeyo
- Back Row: Patrick Sabatia, Bethuel Anami
- Halfbacks: Samuel Asati, Barry Young
- Backline: Griffin Chao, Walter Okoth, Bryceson Adaka, Derrick Ashiundu, Jone Kubu
Replacements: Teddy Akala, Edward Mwaura, Vincent Mwikhali, Hibrahim Ayoo, David Bunduki, Obat Kuke, Brian Tanga, John Okoth
The leadership of Captain George Nyambua in the forward pack will be crucial in maintaining the intensity and structure that overwhelmed Uganda. Meanwhile, Jone Kubu at fullback adds a dynamic element to Kenya’s kicking and counter-attack options.
A Fierce Rivalry Renewed
Sunday’s encounter renews one of African rugby’s oldest and fiercest rivalries. Kenya and Zimbabwe are evenly matched historically, each having won the RAC title twice — Zimbabwe most recently in 2024.
The Simbas will need to be at their tactical and physical best to overcome a Zimbabwean side buoyed by their own strong performances and eyeing back-to-back titles.
The semi-final winner will advance to the final and move one step closer to automatic qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia — the ultimate goal for both teams.
What’s at Stake
Victory on Sunday would not only put the Simbas in the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup final but also bring Kenya tantalizingly close to rejoining the world rugby elite on the sport’s biggest stage. For the fans and the nation, it’s a moment of immense pride and opportunity.
