‘Tank’ names squad for Tunisia tie

Kenya’s Mathew Musita (right) during training at the RFUEA last month. He has been named in the national team to play Tunisia in Africa Cup clash this Saturday. Photo/CHRIS OMOLLO

Head coach Michael “Tank” Otieno has handed KCB and Lions fullback Matthew Musita his first international capping after the 17-year-old was named in the final squad off 22 players to face Tunisia in the Africa Cup clash on Saturday at the RFUEA grounds.

The call-up was good news for the talented Form Three student at St. Paul’s Amukura High School in Teso County who abandoned basketball for rugby.

Otieno also recalled Cheetahs/Nondies’ scrum half Charles “Akaranga” Kanyi after a two-year absence and KCB/Lions loose lock Dennis Mwanja for the tie that doubles up for the Confederation of Africa Rugby (CAR) Cup. Rhinos/Quins winger Victor Sudi will captain the team.

Talented player

Otieno described Musita one of the most talented fullbacks at the moment. “Above all he is hard working and disciplined, and has the hunger to learn,” said Otieno.

Musita described his call up as a dream come true. “This is my greatest feeling since I started playing rugby in Form Three. I thank God and the technical bench for trusting in my abilities,” said Musita.

The former Mombasa Rugby Football Club player attributed his cal-up to hard work and discipline and remains hopeful of victory against Tunisia.

Otieno said although his charges are not well conditioned to scratch, they are ready for revenge against Tunisia who beat them 44-15 in 2008 during the qualifiers for 2011 RWC.

Kenya beat Tunisia for the first time in the 2005 CAR Cup before the North Africans won 31-12 in a qualifier for the 2007 World Cup final.