Kenya U20 Curtis Olago has unveiled the starting lineup ahead of their all-African clash against Zimbabwe in the World Rugby U20 Trophy fifth-place playoff.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 2:00 pm (EAT) at the Nyayo National Stadium.

Kenya U20 backs

Leading the charge from the fullback position will be James Olela. Alongside him are Victor Odhiambo and Alvin Mwamburi who are set to ply their trade on the wings.

Kenyan skipper Michael Wamalwa and Raphael Wanga form a formidable partnership in the centre positions.

Faran Juma, entrusted with the pivotal fly-half position, will be responsible for orchestrating the team’s attacking plays and making crucial decisions on the field.

At scrum-half, Patrick Wainaina will take charge, ensuring quick and precise distribution of the ball to unleash the team’s attacking potential.

The front row will consist of Geylord Ngasi, George Otieno, and Mike Oduor, who will anchor the scrum and provide stability in the set pieces.

Kenya U20 forwards

Edmond Omondih and Andycole Omolo have been selected to form a second-row partnership. On the flanks, Laban Kipsang and Vincent Omondi are set to partner.

In the number eight position, Jacktone Omondi will retain his place at the back of the scrum.

On the replacements bench, the Kenya U20 squad will have Jeremy Odhiambo, Brian Makaya, and Raymond Chacha available to provide reinforcements in the front row when needed. Stanislas Shikoli, James Tsinalo, and Zephenes Obwanga other forward positions

Additionally, Eddy Wambugu and Spencer Davies will be prepared to make an impact when called upon during the course of the match.

Kenya U20 has hailed his side’s progress, saying “We have grown with every game we have played, we are keen to close out our campaign on a high.”

 “There’s obviously something special, I’d call it a great rivalry between  Kenya and Zimbabwe, be it in the sevens, U20s or senior levels. This match is no different and the boys are ready and motivated to set the record straight against Zimbabwe,” he added.

It will be recalled that the two sides faced off at the same venue exactly three months ago, Zimbabwe winning that encounter 28-7 to retain the Barthes Trophy

Kenya U20 squad:

15. James Olela, 14. Victor Odhiambo, 13. Mike Wamalwa (captain), 12. Raphael Wanga, 11. Alvin Mwamburi, 10. Faran Juma, 9. Patrick Wainaina, 1. Geylord Ngasi, 2. George Otieno, 3. Mike Oduor, 4. Edmond Omondih, 5. Andycole Omolo, 6. Laban Kipsang, 7. Vincent Omondi, 8. Jacktone Omondi

REPLACEMENTS 16. Jeremy Odhiambo, 17. Brian Makaya, 18. Raymond Chacha, 19. Stanslas Shikoli, 20. James Tsinalo, 21. Zephenes Obwanga, 22. Eddy Wambugu , 23. Spencer Davies