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Uganda will field a strong Rugby Cranes squad led by star Philip Wokorach and new front-row talent for the Africa Cup.
Rugby Cranes star back Philip Wokorach, who has been turning heads in the India Rugby Premier League, headlines Uganda’s final squad for the highly anticipated Rugby Africa Cup, set to kick off in less than a week.
The Uganda Rugby Union officially released the 28-man squad that blends experienced campaigners with fresh talent eager to prove their mettle on the continental stage.
Wokorach’s inclusion will be a major boost for the Rugby Cranes, as the dynamic fullback has showcased scintillating form overseas.
Joining him is Alex Aturinda, captain of the Uganda 7s side that impressed at the recent Africa Sevens, whose pace and ball-handling skills add a vital dimension to the back row.
Captain Byron Oketayot will again lead the side, supported by vice-captains Frank Kidega and Conrad Wanyama. The leadership group brings a steadying influence to a squad keen to improve on last year’s performances.
A notable feature of the selection is the inclusion of three newcomers in the front row. Edward Emiemu (Walukuba Barbarians), Blair Ayebazibwe (KOBs), and Fahad Maido (Jinja Hippos) all stood out in domestic competitions and now have the opportunity to showcase their scrummaging prowess at the highest level in African rugby.
In the engine room, Eliphaz Emong, Julius Opio, Sydney Gongodyo, and Brian Wandera will carry the workload at lock, while the back row offers plenty of mobility and aggression with the likes of Desire Ayera and Pius Ogena joining Oketayot and Aturinda.
Uganda’s midfield options include Isaac Massa, Ian Munyani, and Timothy Kisiga, who will look to create space for a dangerous outside backs unit featuring Wokorach, Adrian Kasito, and Joseph Aredo.
Full squad;
Squad Hookers: Nathan Bwambale, Edward Emiemu Props: Santos Ssenteza, Blair Ayebazibwe, Saul Kivumbi, Collin Kimbowa, Fahad Maido
Locks: Eliphaz Emong, Julius Opio, Sydney Gongodyo, Brian Wandera Back Row: Byron Oketayot (Captain), Frank Kidega (Vice-Captain), Pius Ogena, Desire Ayera, Alex Aturinda Half-backs: Conrad Wanyama (Vice-Captain), Aaron Ofoyrwoth, William Nkore, Liam Walker Midfield: Isaac Massa, Ian Munyani, Timothy Kisiga
Half-backs: Conrad Wanyama (Vice-Captain), Aaron Ofoyrwoth, William Nkore, Liam Walker Midfield: Isaac Massa, Ian Munyani, Timothy Kisiga
Outside Backs: Philip Wokorach, Adrian Kasito, Joseph Aredo, Shakim Ssembusi, Ivan Otema
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