Kenya Rugby Union has expressed its intention to spread rugby matches outside Nairobi.

The 15s team has all along been playing its test matches at Nairobi’s RFUEA grounds and the union is now thinking of talking such matches to Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu, Machakos and Kakamega as from 2018.

Secretary Oduor Gangla says the idea is driven by the fact that rugby fan-base has spread across the country and that they deserve to be entertained in their immediate neighbourhood.

“Fifteen a side international rugby is growing rapidly with Nairobi hosting six test matches this year, all of which have been very well attended. The timing is right to extend this unique product across the country and grow the test match experience and culture across the country. A number of KRU affiliates have already expressed strong interest in hosting such matches and we look forward to engaging with them from September 2017 to actualize this plan.”

“For this venture to be successful, the support of our affiliates across the country is essential and this will deepen our working relationship. Part of the returns of these events will be earmarked towards legacy rugby development programs that will contribute to the growth and development of the game and support initiatives of the affiliates in the regions,” he told KRU.

Kenya plays against Namibia on Saturday 29 July in Windhoek, Namibia.