Simbas eye redemption as they clash with Algeria in Rugby Africa Cup bronze showdown

Part of the action as Kenya Simbas lost to Zimbabwe in a past match (C) KRU

By Erick Kariuki
Friday, July 18, 2025

The Kenya Simbas will face Algeria in a crucial third-place playoff at the Rugby Africa Cup this Saturday, with more than just bronze at stake. After falling short in the semis, the Simbas aim to bounce back, restore belief, and stay on track for 2027 Rugby World Cup qualification.

The Kenya Simbas are set for a high-stakes battle against Algeria on Saturday, July 19, 2025, in the third-place playoff of the Rugby Africa Cup.

While it may not be the final they hoped for, the match carries immense significance a shot at redemption, a boost in morale, and a crucial stepping stone in their ongoing bid to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

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Head coach Jerome Paarwater has made bold, strategic changes to the squad following their narrow 29-23 semifinal loss to defending champions Zimbabwe on July 13.

The reshuffle is designed to breathe new life into the team and give rising stars a chance to prove themselves on the big stage.

Among the standout changes is the debut of Samuel Ovwamu, a dynamic center from Menengai Oilers, who partners with the experienced John Okoth in midfield. The halfback pairing of Brian Tanga at scrum-half and Brian Wahinya at fly-half returns, aiming to dictate the pace and sharpen game management.

The back three features Timothy Omela, joining mainstays Derrick Ashihundu and Jone Kubu, while the forward pack sees Vincent Mwikhali earn his first tournament start alongside Teddy Akala and Edward Mwaura in the front row.

In the second row, Ibrahim Ayoo teams up with Emmanuel Silungi, with a mobile and powerful back row composed of David Bunduki, Elkeans Musonye, and Obat Kuke.

“We’re giving players who’ve been waiting for their chance to shine,” Paarwater said, pointing to a renewed hunger following the Zimbabwe heartbreak.

Kenya’s campaign began on a high, defeating arch-rivals Uganda 32-24 in a thrilling quarterfinal on July 8. But their World Cup dreams hit a wall against Zimbabwe, despite leading at halftime. Costly penalties and the clinical kicking of Zimbabwe fly-half Ian Prior turned the tide, echoing last year’s painful semifinal loss to Algeria.

With the direct World Cup slot gone, the Simbas must now target the Asia/Africa repechage playoff. That makes this bronze medal clash against Algeria far more than a consolation match it’s a test of character and a vital tune-up ahead of tougher battles ahead.

Algeria, fresh from a dominant 41-6 win over Ivory Coast, are no strangers to big-game pressure. They’ve reached their third straight semifinal and famously stunned Kenya in 2024, denying the Simbas a podium finish.

But the Kenyans are better prepared this time. After a month-long training camp in South Africa and nine intense build-up matches, the squad has grown stronger.

Thirteen players hail from Kabras Sugar RFC, Kenya’s reigning Kenya Cup champions, bringing cohesion and competitive edge.