KRU boss Mutai: 'We have confidence in future of Kenyan rugby' 

© KRU

RUGBY KRU boss Mutai: 'We have confidence in future of Kenyan rugby' 

Kiplagat Sang • 12:27 - 28.06.2023

The Kenya Rugby Union head remains ambitious despite Kenya Sevens’ recent relegation from the World Series.

Kenya Rugby Union chairman, Alexander ‘Sasha’ Mutai has stated he is confident in the future of the game in the country.

Mutai's assertion comes as Kenya prepares to host the World Rugby U20 Trophy  tournament next month. As the country prepares for the global event, it is still hurting from Kenya Sevens' relegation from the World Series.

"We want to get things up. We want to go back to our winning ways. With Under 20, we have confidence in the future of rugby, and this tournament is just the beginning. We are ambitious and have no doubts that our boys will do well in the tournament," said Mutai.

"We are focused on spreading rugby to primary schools and exposing our talented youngsters to international competitions."

Meanwhile, Kenya Rugby Union vice-chairman and World Rugby U20 Trophy chairman, Moses Ndale gave a countdown of how they have prepared to host the junior tournament.

"We need to appreciate the government through the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Arts, and Sports because we are working hand-in-hand with them to get the preparations right and ensure the tournament is competitive. I believe Kenya will perform better," said Ndale.

The U20 tournament will kick off on July 15 at the Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi, and some thrilling battles are expected.

The competition has 16 matches that will be played in 15 days, with the group stage featuring three matchdays. In their opening game, Kenya will tackle Samoa, who are viewed as pre-tournament favourites.

World Rugby U20 Trophy programme

Match Day 1 | Saturday 15 July 2023

Scotland v Zimbabwe | 10.00am

Samoa v Kenya | 12.00pm

Uruguay v USA | 2.00pm

Spain v Hong Kong China | 4.00pm

Match Day 2 | Thursday 20 July 2023

Samoa v Hong Kong China | 10.00am

Uruguay v Zimbabwe | 12.00pm

Scotland v USA | 2.00pm

Spain v Kenya | 4.00pm

Match Day 3 | Tuesday 25 July 2023

USA v Zimbabwe | 10.00am

Kenya v Hong Kong China | 12.00pm

Spain v Samoa | 2.00pm

Scotland v Uruguay | 4.00pm

Match Day 4 | Sunday 30 July 2023

Group A 4th v Group B 4th | 10.00am

Group A 3rd v Group B 3rd | 12.00pm

Group A 2nd v Group B 2nd | 2.00pm

Group A 1st v Group B 1st | 4.00pm