Kenya Simbas face a stern test as they face Eastern Province Elephants in their second match of the Currie Cup on Saturday in Port Alfred, South Africa.
Jerome Paarwater's charges lost their opening match to San Clemente Rhinos 32-22 a fortnight ago and the tactician expects his side to be competitive after two weeks of intense training.
“It's been a good fortnight. The week started with clarity sessions just explaining to the players what to do in situations and to improve our efficiency and improve our all-round game,” added Paarwater.
Paarwater divided the team into forwards and backs with each coach taking charge of the defence and attack drills, later finishing off with some game structure and focusing on exit plays.
He added that the players have adapted to the weather, a mixture of rain and sunshine.
"We have trained under those conditions and the players have adapted to the climate. They have adjusted accordingly," he added.
Paarwater, who has returned for a second stint with the Simbas, said his major goal is to ensure the players are on the same page when it comes to understanding the gameplay structure.
Paarwater will rely on skipper George Nyambua, Ephraim Oduor, Hillary Odhiambo and Brian Juma in the forwards while scrumhalf Samuel Asati, Ntabeni Dukisa, Beldad Ogeta and Andrew Matoka will be the pick of the backs.
Nyambua said: "We are not here just to make the numbers. We want to compete. We won three matches last year. We are targeting at least five this time round, even as we gauge ourselves against quality opposition."
He added that the tournament provides a perfect training ground as they look forward to forthcoming international assignments, including the 2027 Rugby World Cup qualifiers.
The Elephants will be gunning for revenge after losing 41-24 to the Simbas at the RFUEA ground last year.
