Wanyama gets nod for Namibia

Kampala.

Scrum half Conrad Wanyama’s long awaited dream to impress in national colours could be realized on Saturday after he was named in the 23-man Rugby Cranes squad to take on Namibia in a 2019 World Cup Qualifier/ Gold Cup opening round.
The Rugby Cranes who left for Namibia yesterday afternoon saw coaches John Duncan and Robert Seguya ring changes from the side that lost 34-16 to Kenya two weeks ago in the Elgon Cup first leg.
Arthur Mukama, Charles Uhuru, James Ijongat, Lawrence Sebuliba, Collin Kimbowa, Joseph Tamale and Wanyama all made the grade after missing out on the clash against Kenya.
Marvin Odongo, Simon Olet, Ivan Magomu, Edgar Pajob, Nathan Bwambale, Ivan Kirabo and Phillip Wokorach have given way, with the latter’s Samurai obligations not allowing him to train with the side.
All those returning to the side have had a feel of international test rugby except Wanyama who only came close when the South African Barbarians played Uganda in two tests in late April.
The Uganda Cup and league champion with Black Pirates has barely put a foot wrong, enjoying success at club level and Duncan expects him to be a great addition.
“Conrad (Wanyama) is a good player and has lots of courage. And we believe that he brings more energy and enthusiasm to the team.
His courage is almost unrivalled for such a small guy. He has fitted well into our systems,” Duncan observed.
Uganda will take a three week’s rest before the next Gold Cup ties against Kenya on July 7, with the showdown doubling as the Elgon Cup return leg.
Kenya hold an 18-point advantage after winning 16-34 in Kampala last month.

SATURDAY’S GAMES
Asuman Mugerwa (captain), Adnan Mutebi,
Paul Sekate, Joseph Tamale, Saul Kivumbi
Collin Kimbowa, Eliphaz Emong, Robert
Aziku ,Charles Uhuru,Brian Asaba, Byron
Oketayot, Musa Mwonge, Arthur Mukama,
Aaron Ofoyrwoith, Conrad Wanyama, James
Injogat, Lawrence Ssebuliba, Pius Ogena,
Eric Mula, Ian Muyani, Justin Kimono (vice-
captain),James Odong, Adrian Kasito