Debutant Mwikhali fired up for Kenya - Zimbabwe Africa Cup duel

Kenya Simbas debutant Vincent Mwikhali is relishing the opportunity to earn his first cap for the national team when they face Zimbabwe in the Rugby Africa Cup semi-final tomorrow at the iconic Namboole Stadium in Kampala, Uganda. 

Mwikhali, who had a standout season with Menengai Oilers, expressed his gratitude for the national team call-up, terming it a moment of great pride and responsibility.

"I’m glad to be playing tomorrow on my debut. Receiving a national team call-up is a great honour," Mwikhali told Citizen Digital ahead of the crucial fixture. 

"We call upon our fans to come out in large numbers and support us. By the end of the day, we promise to give them a win. There’s a lot happening to our country winning this will mean a lot."

A former Kabras Sugar RFC forward and an education consultant dealing with English and Literature, Mwikhali is set to start off the bench as coach Jerome Paarwater sticks largely to the side that edged out hosts Uganda 33-24 in a an entertaining quarter-final match last Tuesday.

The only change to the starting XV sees Derrick Ashinde come in for winger Timothy Omela, who drops out of the matchday squad.

A win would propel the Simbas to the final and a step closer to 2027 Rugby World Cup qualification, Simbas will be aiming to dethrone the Zimbabwe Sables and continue their strong run in the tournament.

1.Ephraim Oduor

2.Eugene Sifuna

3.Wilhite Mususi

4.George Nyambua (C)

5.Andycole Omolo

6.Thomas Okeyo

7.Patrick Sabatia

8.Bethuel Anami

9.Samuel Asati

10.Barry Young

11.Griffin Chao

12.Walter Okoth

13.Bryceson Adaka

14.Derrick Ashiundu

15.Jone Kubu

16.Teddy Akala

17.Edward Mwaura

18.Vincent Mwikhali*

19.Hibrahim Ayoo

20.David Bunduki*

21.Obat Kuke

23.Brian Tanga

24.John Okoth

Kick-off is set for 4:00PM EAT, with fans expected to turn up in droves to cheer on the Simbas as they continue their hunt for continental glory.