Kenya Simba's Derrick Ashiundu sizes up an Algerian opponent  during the Rugby World Cup qualifiers last year in Kampala/HANDOUT 

The Elgon Cup between Kenya and Uganda will return in June this year after a one-year hiatus.

The two-legged rugby showdown had been scheduled for last year but was shelved due to the Rugby World Cup qualifiers held in Kampala.

Speaking on the development, Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) vice chairman, Moses Ndale, said the provisional squad for the Kenya national team, popularly known as Simbas, will assemble in May after the conclusion of the domestic league season to begin preparations for the clash.

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“We are looking at May as a potential date to start training for the tournament once we are done with the league programme,” said Ndale, referring to the Kenya Cup and the Enterprise Cup competitions.

Ndale noted that one month of training will be sufficient for the team to reach peak condition ahead of the regional showdown. “Remember, a good number of the players will be coming from a competitive Kenya Cup season, and match fitness will not be a problem for the vast majority of the squad. We will be in good condition for the event,” he added.

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The Kenya national rugby union team lifted the Elgon Cup in 2024 after beating the Uganda national team 48–30 on aggregate. Kenya edged the first leg 27–25 in Kampala before sealing the title with a commanding 21–5 victory in Kisumu.

Ndale also revealed that discussions are ongoing to strengthen international 15-a-side competitions in Africa following a recent Rugby Africa general council meeting in Kampala.

According to him, there are plans to revamp tournaments such as the Rugby Africa Cup to ensure national teams get more competitive matches throughout the year.

“We are waiting for the blueprint from Rugby Africa, but I strongly believe our 15s team, the Simbas, need to play more regularly, especially during the international windows in June and November,” said Ndale.

He also expressed optimism that the Simbas could face the Zimbabwe national team later this year as the Sables continue preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

“Zimbabwe have expressed interest in playing us later in the year as they continue preparing for the World Cup. It’s a win-win for both sides,” he said.

Talks are also underway to revive the Victoria Cup, a regional competition that previously featured Kenya, Zimbabwe, Uganda and Zambia. “Yes, we are looking at bringing back the Victoria Cup either this year or next year to help grow competitiveness among teams in the region,” Ndale added.