This archive report was first published on 8 October 2021.
Kenya Rugby head coach Paul Odera has announced a 40-player training squad for a tour of South Africa, which includes two uncapped players, Bethuel Anami and George Omolla.
The Simbas will face the best players from the Currie Cup in a match on November 6, followed by a Quadrangular Tournament in Stellenbosch from November 14.
Coach Odera selected the squad based on footage and data from players who performed well against Zambia, as well as players who stood out in the Kenya Cup season.
"We based selection on footage and data from players who played really well against Zambia in the last test; the wider training squad; the overseas based players and a few others who may have stood out in the Kenya Cup season and may have missed out on selection earlier in the year," coach Odera said.
The Simbas will also play an international friendly in Bloemfontein on November 25 against an opponent to be confirmed.
Kenya Rugby Union chairman Oduor Gangla expressed gratitude for the invitation to participate in the Carling Champions Cup in Pretoria.
"This will be an excellent opportunity for the Simbas to play against top-notch professional opponents even as we prepare for the international test matches coming up. The experience of such matches is truly priceless as we prepare for the Rugby World Cup qualifiers next year," said Gangla.
The Simbas' November itinerary includes:
- November 6: Carling Champions Match, Pretoria - vs Currie Cup Select
- November 14: Stellenbosch Quadrangular, Stellenbosch - vs Namibia (Direct Semi Final)
- November 20: Stellenbosch Quadrangular, Stellenbosch - vs TBC
- November 25: International Friendly, Bloemfontein - TBC
