A historical reflection on Kenya’s early encounters with Zambia and Zimbabwe, and the players who stepped onto the international stage for the first time. East Africa Rugby Historian
The Simba’s have roared for 100 years. A number of players have debuted against particular nations. Kenya first played Zambia in 1980 & again in 1989 & even in the new millennium. We first tackled Zimbabwe at home in 1981 again in 1983 and away in 1984.
These are the gentlemen who have debuted against the Rhodesians. Of course, they are more as we have played them many times-Lets go with the 1980s.
Simba’s who debuted vs Zambia-(1) on 5/7/1980 at RFUEA Grounds-Nairobi-Kenya
1)-Evans G. Vitisia of Mean Machine
2)-Arthur Kibisu of Kenya Harlequins
3)-Fred Oduor of Blak Blad
4)-James Bichange Nyamwange of Mean Machine
5)-Bethuel Alunga Omolo of Blak Blad
6)-Dan Kimoro of Impala
7)Douglas Wekomba of Impala
8)-Jim Odotte of Mwamba
9)-Caleb Clint Oguya of Mean Machine
10)-Roger Otolo of Mean Machine
Simba’s who debuted vs Zambia-(2)-16/8/1989 at Roan Antelope Grounds-Luanshya-Zambia
1)-Charles Abuoga of Mwamba
Simba’s who debuted vs Zimbabwe-(1)-23/05/1981 at RFUEA Grounds-Nairobi-Kenya..
1)-Tom Oketch of Mwamba
2)Dan Mugo of Kenya Harlequins
3)-Pritt Esau Nyandatt of Mwamba
4)-Mike’ Tank’ Otieno of Blak Blad
5)-Patrick Alukwe Wakhu of Saint Mary’s School-Nairobi
Simba’s who debuted vs Zimbabwe-(2)-31/08/1983 at RFUEA Grounds-Nairobi-Kenya..
1)-Charles Angawa of Kenya Harlequins
2)-Sam Abuoga of Mwamba
3)-Tom Atak of Barclays Bank
Simba’s who debuted vs Zimbabwe-(3)-28/04/1984 at Police Grounds-Harare-Zimbabwe
1)-Jimmy Ayoki of Impala
2)-Kris Kyalo Kavila of Impala
Simba’s who debuted vs Zimbabwe-(4)-14/09/1985 at RFUEA Grounds-Nairobi-Kenya..
1)-Paul Ngoga Owako of Kenya Harlequins
Which Nation did you debut against? Or was it a Club side? And the beat goes on.
