Rugby enthusiasts promises a day packed with exhilarating rugby action at Nairobi’s RFUEA Grounds on Saturday, November 9, culminating in the highly anticipated Elgon Cup face-off between the Kenya Simbas and Uganda Cranes.
Here’s your complete guide to this year’s event, the history of the Elgon Cup, and what fans can expect from the day’s action.
Kubu has been named on the bench as Jerome Paarwater named his 23-man squad for their Elgon Cup first leg encounter against Uganda set to take place at the RFUEA Ground this Saturday.
The Elgon Cup is an annual rugby showdown between Kenya and Uganda, named after Mount Elgon, the iconic peak on the Kenya-Uganda border.
Since its inception in 2004, this tournament has grown into one of East Africa’s most awaited rugby events, fostering a friendly yet fierce rivalry between the neighboring nations. Originally held in Nairobi as a friendly, the competition has expanded to become an annual, home-and-away event.
Designed to promote rugby development across East Africa, the Elgon Cup also prepares both teams for upcoming international competitions.
The event now includes women’s matches and an Under-20 category, making it a family-friendly and inclusive rugby experience. With Kenya holding 10 victories to Uganda’s 7 in the past 17 tournaments, the Elgon Cup remains a fiercely competitive battle with each match impacting the world rugby rankings.
In 2024, the first leg of the Elgon Cup will be hosted in Nairobi on November 9, while the second leg will be held in Kampala on November 16.
The day is set to feature several matches, kicking off with the Nondies Legends versus the UK Tritons at 11:00 AM. Following this, KCB Rugby will take on Kenya Harlequins at 1:00 PM. The main event, Kenya Simbas versus Uganda Cranes, will begin at 4:00 PM, showcasing the intense rivalry and passion that defines the Elgon Cup.
Full Schedule:
11:00 AM: Nondies Legends vs. UK Tritons
1:00 PM: KCB Rugby vs. Kenya Harlequins
4:00 PM: Kenya Simbas vs. Uganda Cranes (Main Event)
The excitement doesn’t end with the final whistle. Fans attending the Elgon Cup can look forward to an afterparty, allowing rugby lovers to relax and celebrate a day filled with sportsmanship and action. This adds a layer of entertainment for those looking to wind down after a packed day of matches and catch up with friends and fellow fans.
The matches will take place at the RFUEA Grounds, located along Ngong Road in Nairobi. Known for its passionate crowd and lively atmosphere, the venue is a top choice for rugby events and is expected to host a large crowd of fans ready to cheer on their favorite teams.
The Elgon Cup remains an unmissable highlight in East African rugby, combining tradition, rivalry, and community in a unique event that unites fans from Kenya and Uganda.
Whether you’re a die-hard rugby fan or a newcomer to the sport, this year’s Elgon Cup promises high-energy action, fierce competition, and a memorable day of rugby at its finest. Grab your tickets, head to the RFUEA Grounds, and be part of this annual celebration of rugby.