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The Nairobian

Dubai 7s: Moment of truth as Shujaa face France, Australia and South Africa

Rugby

By Washington Onyango | Nov 30, 2024

After a year away from the global rugby stage, Kenya's Shujaa are set to make their much-anticipated return to the World Rugby Sevens Series at the Emirates Dubai 7s this weekend.

The tournament marks the first leg of the 2025 HSBC SVNS season, promising fierce competition and thrilling action.

Shujaa's resurgence has been nothing short of remarkable under the leadership of head coach Kelvin ‘Bling’ Wambua.

Relegated from the World Series in May 2023, the team bounced back by winning the Africa Sevens and finishing among the top two in the Challenger Series, securing a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Now, their mission is clear: retain their core status in the elite sevens circuit.

Speaking ahead of the Dubai Sevens, Wambua highlighted the team’s focus on staying consistent throughout the season.

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"We’ve learned from our past challenges and are committed to building a strong, cohesive unit. Our goal is not just to compete but to prove we belong among the world’s best teams. Consistency and adaptability will be key to our success," he stated.

However, Shujaa will begin their campaign without experienced captain Vincent Onyala and Anthony Omondi due to unresolved contractual issues with the Kenya Rugby Union.

To fill the leadership void, Wambua has appointed KCB’s Samwel Asati and Strathmore Leos’ George Ooro as co-captains.

The squad also features Kenya Cup champion Kevin Wekesa and Brian Mutua of Kabras Sugar, alongside National Sevens Circuit standout Dennis Abukuse from Menengai Oilers.

Speedster Patrick Odongo, Nygel Amaitsa, Chrissant Ojwang, Festus Shiasi, Floyd Wabwire, and debutant Brayan Ondego complete the lineup.

Shujaa’s pool assignments are daunting, as they face defending Olympic champions France, South Africa, and Australia.

Their opener against France kicks off at 9:50 AM, followed by a clash with South Africa at 1:58 PM, before wrapping up pool play against Australia at 7:22 PM.

France, the reigning SVNS Champions, will be aiming to continue their dominance after defeating Argentina to win the inaugural title in 2024.