NAIROBI, July 8 (Xinhua) -- Kenya and Uganda will lock horns in the battle for regional east Africa rugby dominance when the two countries clash in Kampala on Saturday for the Elgon Cup.
The two teams met in June with Kenya stunning the Uganda women's side while their men's team Simbas lost to Uganda.
Kenya's men's team head coach Paul Odera has made eight changes to the Simbas squad that suffered the 13-16 loss to Uganda.
The Squad will miss four players who featured in the first leg as they are away in South Africa while five upcoming stars are away on national duty with the Kenya Under-20 side Chipu, who have travelled to Brazil for the World Cup Junior tournament.
Instead, Odera has recalled Sevens sides skipper Andrew Amonde into the squad with Jacob Ojee making his first appearance for the Simbas this year.
"Andrew will add some power into the backrow as he also gates the powerful runners that Uganda had, Curtis Lilako will come off the bench at tight head while Jacob Ojee's pace and experience will be very invaluable to the team.
"We have also included Melvin Thairu in the squad, who is a very good ball carrier as well as Fidel Oloo," said Odera on Monday.
The inclusion of the senior players brings in the much needed experience on the pitch and it will be important in decision making as well.
With coach Odera away in Brazil, Kenya will be led in Kampala by Albertus Van Buuren assisted by the Director of Rugby and Former Kenya Simbas Coach, Thomas Odundo.
Alongside Kenya and Uganda, the tournament also has Zambia and Zimbabwe in what is an expanded competition dubbed the Victoria Cup.
The two southern Africa teams will be meeting in Harare for their regional contest.
