Kimono’s return comes with expectations

Try Time. Kimono touched down two years ago when he last represented the Rugby Cranes and the fans will be hoping he can pounce on return. PHOTO BY EDDIE CHICCO

KAMPALA.

Justin Kimono will end a two-year absence from rugby when he pulls on the Rugby Cranes stripe on Saturday as Uganda hosts Kenya in the first leg of the Elgon Cup at Legends Rugby Club.
In a major boost to Uganda, the 26-year-old wing, who suffered a horrendous knee injury in 2015 during the Rugby Africa 1B forcing him into double surgery, was named in the final 23-man squad.
And his availability will come with expectations and a bit of relief for the home fans, at least Cranes captain and teammate at Betway Kobs Brian Odongo, can testify on that.
“To have Justin back is good news for everyone from the fans, players, management and the entire country,” he told Daily Monitor.
Kimono’s reputation speaks for itself, since his debut in 2008 against Zimbabwe, Kimono has averaged a try per game and it is no coincidence that he touched down the last time he played for Uganda just like he did on his debut.
His consistence and reliability will largely be welcomed in a side still trying to find its groove in transition yet for a lad of his age, he seems to have done it all.
“He is tried and tested on both local and international levels and won’t be fazed by the occasion. There is nothing new to him,” added Odongo, who also thinks Kimono will add a lot to Uganda as a team.
“We know what he can do with ball, he can use his experience to calm the younger lads and we hope to strive off him,” he said.
Coach Robert Seguya’s thoughts on Kimono’s return are no different from his captain’s and he hopes to give him a run out in the middle on the turf he calls home after naming him as a replacement.
“He is a class act and it’s good to have him playing rugby again,” said Seguya. “I will give him a few minutes although I would not like to risk him for this game with more significant games waiting in line.”

At a glance.
Justin Kimono
D.O.B: 10/1/1992
Height (cm): 166
Weight (Kgs): 85
Club: Betway Kobs
Position: Wing
Caps: 24