After Robert Aringo, Vincent Mose and Sammy Oliech’s inclusion into the Tusker Simba XVs team that beat Portugal 41-15 last weekend, more and more talent is receiving a nod from the national team selectors. The latest of these comes from last weekend where more than 60 of the best junior rugby players in Kenya were called in for selection. The Kenya Under 19 team, fondly referred to as Chipu has had its fair share of wins, achievements and learnings. Most rugby nations with a keen eye on securing top spots in future understand that junior rugby should be the main focus. The Standard Chartered Impala Saracens Rugby Academy is not new to this. Over the past 3 years, we have witnessed the senior team finish a trophy-less season only for the Academy side to paint a broad smile with massive trophy wins. It was not going to be long before curiosity would turn into interest.
11 Academy players called in for Under 19 selection
On the 31st of May 2015, Anthony Odhiambo, Bill Omondi, Kelvin Atuke, Marcus Okello, Neville Omondi, Patrick Mutuku, Steve Shammah. Tobias Otieno, Tyson Okoth and Yassa Musa were called in for selection at the RFUEA.
5 selected to begin training
Out of the 11, 5 who are highly likely to don the national team jerseys were selected to begin training. They are; Douglas Ochami (prop), Steve Shammah (flank), Anthony Odhiambo ( Fullback/ Fly half), Tyson Okoth (Lock) and Bill Omondi (centre). We wish them the best of luck as they prepare to cement their positions in the team.