Kenya Rugby Union vice chairman Moses Ndale says the Simbas will assemble in May to begin preparations for the Elgon Cup, setting the stage for a renewed rivalry with Uganda in June.
Speaking to The Star Kenya, Ndale confirmed the provisional squad will report after the conclusion of Kenya’s domestic season.
“We are looking at May as a potential date to start training for the tournament once we are done with the league programme,” he said, referring to the Kenya Cup and Enterprise Cup.
He added that a month in camp will be enough to get the team ready for the two-legged tie against Uganda.
“Remember, a good number of the players will be coming from a competitive Kenya Cup season, and match fitness will not be a problem for the vast majority of the squad. We will be in good condition for the event.”
The Elgon Cup returns this June after a one-year break, having been shelved in 2025 due to the Rugby World Cup qualifiers held in Kampala.
Kenya are the current holders after beating Uganda 48–30 on aggregate in 2024.
Ndale also indicated that Kenya are pushing for more regular international matches.
“We are waiting for the blueprint from Rugby Africa, but I strongly believe our 15s team, the Simbas, need to play more regularly, especially during the international windows in June and November,” he said.
He revealed that Kenya could face Zimbabwe later this year, while talks are ongoing to revive the Victoria Cup, a regional competition that previously featured Uganda, Kenya, Zimbabwe and Zambia.
“Yes, we are looking at bringing back the Victoria Cup either this year or next year to help grow competitiveness among teams in the region,” Ndale said.
