Kenya Lionesses head coach Simon Odongo has rung the changes ahead of Wednesday’s Rugby Africa Women’s Cup clash against Madagascar at RFUEA Grounds, with several positional switches and fresh selections in the matchday squad.
Naomi Muhanji has been handed the starting role at hooker, replacing Knight Otuoma who drops to the bench after starting in the previous outing against Uganda. The front row will see Jane Chanya and captain Natasha Emali complete the trio.
In the back row, the experienced Sheila Chajira returns to the starting XV at number eight, leading to Naomi Amuguni missing out on the squad. Marvel Oswago and Nelly Chikombe retain their places in the loose forwards while Phoebe Otieno and Naomi Jelagat continue in the second row.
Judith Auma earns a starting berth at scrum-half in place of Sinaida Mokaya, who shifts to fullback for the crucial encounter. Vice-captain Maureen Muritu keeps her role at fly-half as Kenya looks to maintain attacking fluidity.
The backline also sees Freshia Oduor come onto the right wing, replacing debutant Tracy Montex who misses out on the squad. Stella Wafula, Faith Livoi and Janet Okello complete an exciting and pacey back division for the Lionesses.
Among the replacements, Knight Otuoma provides cover in the forwards alongside Jascenta Musakali, Sheila Wesa and Edith Sitati. Charity Nillah, Edith Nariaka, Atieno Awuor and Yvette Okech also make the bench.
Kenya will be aiming to build on their impressive 43-10 victory over Uganda when they take on Madagascar on Tuesday afternoon at RFUEA grounds.
Starting XV
1.Jane Chanya
2.Naomi Muhanji
3.Natasha Emali (cc)
4.Naomi Jelagat
5.Phoebe Otieno
6.Nelly Chikombe
7.Marvel Oswago
8.Sheila Chajira
9.Judith Auma (cc)
10.Maureen Muritu (vc)
11.Stella Wafula
12.Faith Livoi
13.Janet Okello
14.Freshia Oduor
15.Sinaida Mokaya
Substitutions
16. Knight Otuoma
17. Jascenta Musakali
18. Sheila Wesa
19. Edith Sitati
20. Charity Nillah
21. Edith Nariaka
22. Atieno Awuor
23. Yvette Okech
English