South Coast Pirates have named Kenya under 20 international and new acquisition Iddo Kuta in their starting XV for Saturday’s crucial Kenya Cup Championship clash against Mean Machine at the Seacrest grounds, Diani with the forward set to play a key role as the Ukunda-based side looks to make home advantage count.
The former Kenya Harlequin and Daystar falcons forward, starts at blindside flanker as the Pirates continue their push in the Championship.
Abdhala Mohamed leads the side from fullback, with Tirop Silvester and Jeremy Andati providing pace and creativity in the backline. The midfield pairing of Captain Charles Tendwa and Cedric Odhiambo offers balance in both defence and attack, while Robin Odrua completes the back three.
Up front, Adnan Juma marshals the tight five alongside John Asega and James Ainea, as the Pirates look to dominate the collisions and breakdown area. Juma Mwaburashi and Brian Maina are on the wings while Ali Rashid and Joseph Musyoki complete the back row with Kuta, forming a mobile unit expected to contest aggressively at the rucks.
The bench features several exciting options, including debutants Anthony Morogo and Iddo Kuta.
Speaking ahead of the match, Khadambi noted that calm execution and discipline will be key. “Mean Machine are well organised and punish mistakes. We have prepared well and the boys understand the assignment,” he said.
Saturday’s encounter will also be sponsored by Sandlovers Real Estate Agent, who continue to support rugby at the coast.
Pirates vs Mean machine Squad
1. Abdhala Mohamed
2. Tirop Silvester **
3. Jeremy Andati
4. Adnan Juma
5. John Asega
6. James Ainea
7. Iddo Kuta**
8. Benedict Wesonga
9. Ali Rashid
10. Joseph Musyoki
11. Brian Maina
12. Cedric Odhiambo
13. Charles Tendwa
14. Juma Mwaburashi
15. Robin Odrua
BOMB SQUAD
16. Noordin Abdhala
17. Sadala Mohamed
18. Philip Atichi
19. Anthony Morogo *
20. Paul Angura
21. Farid Musa
22. Tonny oduor
23.Abdhul Mwaleso
TECHNICAL BENCH
HC Tonny Khadambi
AC Habib Zuga
Forward C Kennedy Wambua
Physio Lindah Rabuogi
A.Physio Mitchell
TM Cliphod Odhiambo Ogola
English