Kenya's 'Chipu' revamped for Tunisia showdown in Rugby Africa U20 Trophy

Kenya's national U20 rugby team, 'Chipu', under the guidance of head coach Simon Jawichre, has made three strategic changes to their squad ahead of their second fixture in the ongoing Rugby Africa U20 Barthes Trophy in Harare, Zimbabwe. These alterations come as they prepare to face Tunisia tomorrow at 3 PM local time.

Following their triumphant start to the tournament with a 34-28 victory over Namibia on Sunday, Kenya is gearing up to encounter Tunisia, who faced a 46-21 defeat at the hands of Zimbabwe in their opening match.

In the lineup adjustments, Wycliffe Ogutu, Brian Kiptanui, and Clein Okumbi will be making their debut starts for Team Kenya in the tournament.

Expressing his optimism and confidence in his team's abilities, Coach Jawichre spoke to the Kenya Rugby Union Portal, emphasizing the positivity within the squad. He also highlighted the need to refine their set pieces and defensive structures.

"We're fortunate that our team is brimming with positivity and confidence. However, we recognize the need to fine-tune our set pieces and defensive structure. It's worth noting that the match against Namibia marked our first competitive fixture this year, with no friendly matches to prepare adequately," Jawichre said.

Jawichre noted that the match against Namibia marked the team's first competitive fixture this year, lacking even friendly matches to prepare adequately.

Looking forward, Kenya will conclude their campaign against hosts and defending champions Zimbabwe on Sunday at 6 PM local time.

The tournament features four teams—Zimbabwe, Namibia, Kenya, and Tunisia—competing on a round-robin basis. The eventual winner will be determined by the team with the highest points tally after three rounds of matches.

As it stands, Kenya currently holds the second position with five points, level with Zimbabwe. Namibia occupies the third spot with two points, while Tunisia has yet to secure any points.

Below is the squad lineup for Kenya's upcoming match against Tunisia:

·         Darrel Olouch

·         Bramwel Anekea

·         Wycliffe Ogutu

·         Eugene Etale

·         Clein Okumbi

·         Edmond Omondi

·         Andycole Omolo

·         Iddo Kuta

·         Patrick Wainana

·         Jackson Siketi

·         Alvin Khavoli

·         Michael Wamalwa

·         Daniel Kipchirchir

·         Brian Kiptanui

·         James Olela

·         Brian Shile

·         Geylord Ngasi

·         Ian Nyandusi

·         Nathan Tsindoli

·         Willy Tino

·         Benadict Muiruri

·         Faran Juma

·         Philip OKeyo