Kenya Simbas unleash semi-final squad for Zimbabwe showdown

Kenya’s national rugby team, the Simbas, are set for a high-stakes battle against Zimbabwe in the semi-finals of the Rugby Africa Cup. The match is scheduled for Sunday, July, 13, 2025, at 4:00 pm.
Head Coach Jerome Paarwaters has unveiled his match-day squad, making just one change to the side that secured a hard-fought win over Uganda. Powerful winger Derrick Ashiundu returns to the starting lineup, replacing Timothy Omela.
This fixture rekindles a long-standing rivalry between two proud rugby nations. Both Kenya and Zimbabwe have won the Rugby Africa Cup twice, Kenya in 2011 and 2013, while Zimbabwe claimed the title in 2012 and recently in 2024. With both teams eyeing a place in the final, the atmosphere is expected to be electric.
The Simbas are not just playing for a trophy, they are on a mission to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Every match counts, and the team is approaching each fixture with the seriousness it deserves.

Speaking ahead of the match, Assistant Coach Carlos Katywa highlighted the team’s mindset and ambition.
“We are taking each game as a final,” said Katywa. “The boys understand what’s at stake, and we’re fully locked in for this challenge.”
The squad will be led by captain George Nyambua, who brings both strength and experience to the pack. Other key players to watch include fly-half Jone Kubu, centre Walter Okoth, and back-rower Bethuel Anami.
Simbas starting XV
Ephraim Oduor, Eugene Sifuna, Wilhite Mususi, George Nyambua (C), Andycole Omolo, Thomas Okeyo, Patrick Sabatia, Bethuel Anami, Samuel Asati, Barry Young, Griffin Chao, Walter Okoth, Bryceson Adaka, Derrick Ashiundu, and Jone Kubu.
Replacements (Impact)
Teddy Akala, Edward Mwaura, Vincent Mwikhali, Hibrahim Ayoo, David Bunduki, Obat Kuke, Brian Tanga, and John Okoth.
With a confident squad and a clear goal in sight, the Simbas are ready to charge into action. All eyes will be on them as they fight to book their place in the Rugby Africa Cup final.
Author
Kenneth Mwenda
Kenneth Mwenda is a digital writer with over five years of experience. He graduated in February 2022 with a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from The Co-operative University of Kenya. He has written news and feature stories for platforms such as Construction Review Online, Sports Brief, Briefly News, and Criptonizando. In 2023, he completed a course in Digital Investigation Techniques with AFP. He joined People Daily in May 2025. For inquiries, he can be reached at kenneth.mwenda@mediamax.ke.
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