In Summary:
- Kenya’s rugby team, the Simbas, will play UAE on May 24 in Nairobi as they prepare for World Cup qualifiers.
- The team is currently training hard and has important upcoming matches in South Africa and Uganda.
- Kenya aims to qualify for the expanded 2027 Rugby World Cup after narrowly missing out in the past.
The Kenya Simbas are preparing for a test match against the UAE in Nairobi on May 24 as a warm-up for the Rugby World Cup qualifiers in July. Following this, they face further challenges with a South Africa tour and the Rugby Africa Cup in Uganda, all aimed at securing a spot in the 2027 World Cup. Having narrowly missed the previous World Cup, the team is highly motivated, especially with the expanded tournament format offering a greater chance for qualification.
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Simba’s Prep for UAE Showdown
Kenya’s national rugby team, known as the Simbas, is set to play a crucial test match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The game will take place on May 24, 2025, at the RFUEA grounds located in Nairobi. This upcoming match serves as important preparation for the Rugby World Cup Qualifiers scheduled for July.
Currently, the Kenyan team is undergoing intensive training in Kakamega. Their training camp in the western region of the country will conclude on May 18. The Simbas have a busy schedule ahead, which includes a series of friendly and test matches. These games are designed to ensure the team is in top form as they head into the significant World Cup qualification process.
In the global rugby rankings, Kenya holds the 33rd position. The UAE is currently ranked 50th. South Africa holds the top spot as the leading rugby nation worldwide.
Road to the Rugby World Cup
Looking beyond the UAE match, the Kenya Simbas are preparing for further challenges. They have an upcoming tour to South Africa. Additionally, they will participate in the Rugby Africa Cup tournament, which will be held in Uganda. Both the South African tour and the Rugby Africa Cup are vital events in Kenya’s journey to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Head Coach Jerome Paarwater has selected a provisional squad of 55 players. Following the training camp in Kakamega, this number will be reduced to 33 players. These selected individuals will then travel to South Africa for a specialized training camp aimed at enhancing their skills and teamwork.
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Dreaming of the World Stage
Kenya narrowly missed qualifying for the 2022 World Cup, losing to Namibia in the final qualification stage. This time around, the team is highly motivated and determined to secure a spot in the prestigious global tournament.
The Rugby Africa Cup carries significant weight in the qualification pathway. The team that emerges as the winner of this tournament will automatically qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The runner-up will have another opportunity to qualify through a playoff system.
The Rugby World Cup is expanding its reach. Previously featuring 20 participating teams, the tournament will now include 24 teams. This expansion provides Kenya with a greater opportunity to qualify and participate in the World Cup for the first time in its history.
The Kenya Simbas are demonstrating significant dedication and effort in their preparations. They face demanding matches in the near future. However, the team remains focused and committed to achieving their aspiration of competing in the Rugby World Cup.
