Kenya Simbas team manager Jimmi Mnene has called for better preparation in readiness for the Rugby World Cup qualifiers next year in Uganda.
Following a dismal campaign in the just concluded Africa Cup, where the team finished fourth, Mnene was unequivocal that without build-up matches to the qualifiers, Simbas will not qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
“It’s getting very frustrating for the team and management. There is no shortage of talent within the country but without build-up matches, we will struggle to beat the rest of the continent,” he said.
He added: “The 15’s game on the continent has tremendously improved. Countries like Algeria can call upon foreign-based professionals from France, Uganda trained in South Africa for two weeks, Zimbabwe played Zambia and Namibia played Portugal. We are the only country who went to the event without any serious build-up and it’s hurting our chances of qualification or improving our ranking.”
Kenya last won the Africa Cup in 2013 in Madagascar and have been runners up six times since to Namibia. Mnene said either the Simbas play the Currie Cup next year in South Africa or play higher-ranked nations to be in good shape for the qualifiers.
“It’s incumbent on the union and government to look for the funding to give us the best chance. If we do qualify, the landscape of rugby will change forever not only for the national team but also for all the age groups and the women’s game,” added Mnene.
The Simbas won their opening game, edging Senegal 36-17 before a shock 20-12 defeat to Algeria in the semis. They then lost the bronze medal match to Namibia 38-27.
Zimbabwe reclaimed the Africa Cup with a 29-3 win over Algeria in the final. Mnene said he was encouraged by the performance of some of the younger players who were called into the side like Blak Blad’s Obat Kuke who was outstanding in the match against Namibia.
“Obat played well in our final match and he is a player who will be a huge asset in the next couple of years,” he added.
The Simbas are due to play Uganda in the annual Elgon Cup with the dates yet to be announced.
