The Tusker Simba XV will not play in this year's Vodacom Cup for financial reasons, with the Welwitschias from Nambia back in the competition.

The Kenyan team finished second last in last year’s southern section, with one win and six defeats.

Kenya Rugby Union secretary Eddie Omondi confirmed they could not afford to take part in the competition in 2015.

'We left massive debts last year and looking at the long-term, our view is that it's not sustainable. For us to spend such colossal sums of money to go play in the Vodacom Cup this year, is out of the question,' Omondi told Kenya’s Star newspaper.

On Monday, Saru announced that 16 teams, split into two sections of eight each, will contest the 2015 Vodacom Cup, with defending champions Griquas heading up a strong South Section.

Joining the five-time champions from Kimberley in the South Section will be Western Province, the Boland Cavaliers, Border Bulldogs, Sharks XV, EP Kings, SWD Eagles and Free State XV.

The Golden Lions, runners-up last year and champions in 2013, are in the North Section with the Limpopo Blue Bulls, Griffons, Leopards XV, Pumas, Valke, Blue Bulls and Welwitschias.