Wamalwa will be taking over from Kenya Harlequin lock Laban Kipsang, who steered the country to a second-placed finish behind Zimbabwe in the 2023 U20 Barthes Trophy that took place back in April in Nairobi.
The new captain will be deputized by Daystar Falcons prop Geylord Ngasi as Kipsang is shifted to leading the forwards as the team fondly known as Chipu seeks to conquer the world on home soil.
While speaking to journalists in their last training session ahead of the tournament, Wamalwa said they are not under any pressure ahead of the World Under-20 Rugby Trophy tournament.
“We have prepared well for the tournament, working every day in camp to perfect our moves, break down the opponent and defend well. We are ready to make Kenyans proud,” Wanjala said.
Chipu are set to face Hong Kong China, Samoa, and Spain in Group B as the USA, Zimbabwe Uruguay, and Scotland battle in Group A and Wamalwa believes his side has what it takes to qualify for the next stage having made better preparations going into the competition.
In the tournament that kicks off on Saturday, Scotland will get the competition underway against African champions Zimbabwe before Samoa takes on the hosts in the second game.
Uruguay then plays USA before Spain closes match day 1 action against Hong Kong China.
It is the second time Kenya are hosting the U20 Trophy, having done so back in 2009 when the tournament was known as the Junior World Rugby Trophy.
Kenya’s participation in this year’s U20 Trophy was guaranteed as hosts, however, they put in a promising showing in the Barthés Trophy in April 2023.
The winners of this tournament will be promoted to the U20 Championship League.
Saturday fixtures and timings
Scotland’s vs Zimbabwe – 1000EAT
Samoa vs Kenya – 1200EAT
Uruguay vs USA – 14000EAT
Spain vs Hong Kong China – 1600EAT
