The Rugby Cranes were officially flagged off on Wednesday, November 6, at the National Council of Sports (NCS) offices in Lugogo ahead of their highly anticipated Elgon Cup clash against Kenya’s Simbas.
The first leg of the competition is scheduled for Saturday, November 9, at Nairobi’s RFUEA Grounds.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by NCS officials, and Uganda Rugby Union executives.
The Rugby Cranes, under the captaincy of Byron Oketayot and vice-captain Conrad Wanyama, aim to reverse Kenya’s historical dominance in the Elgon Cup.
Speaking shortly after being named captain, Oketayot expressed optimism about Uganda’s chances, emphasizing the team’s commitment.
“We know the challenge in Nairobi, but we’re prepared. This is something we’ve worked towards, and we’re ready to give it our all,” he said.
Oketayot, who first represented Uganda against Kenya in 2016, recently assumed captaincy from Ivan Magomu.
The squad for this year’s Elgon Cup has seen significant changes, with 12 new additions from last year’s lineup.
Notable absentees include former captain Ivan Magomu and Michael Wokorach, while key new players include Edward Emieru, Robin Odrua, and Haruna Mohammed.
Rugby Cranes Traveling Squad for the 2024 Elgon Cup:
1. Santos Ssenteza
2. Shakim Ssembusi
3. Collin Kimbowa
4. Charles Uhuru
5. Asuman Mugerwa
6. Innocent Gwokto
7. Edward Emieru
8. Robin Odrua
9. Eric Mulamula
10. Moses Zziwa
11. Saul Kivumbi
12. Sidney Gongodyo
13. Yasin Waiswa
14. Jude Jjuko
15. Joseph Aredo
16. Eliphaz Emong
17. Haruna Mohammed
18. Brian Wandera
19. Wilfred Kalungi
20. Pius Ogena
21. Conrad Wanyama
22. Byron Oketayot (Captain)
23. Aaron Ofoywroth
With the first leg in Kenya on November 9 and the return leg in Kampala on November 16, the Cranes are eager to secure an advantage in Nairobi.
