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NEWS & CURRENT AFFAIRS

The Nairobian

Defending champions Kenya Sevens upbeat ahead of Africa Sevens

Rugby

By Washington Onyango | Jun 29, 2024

Shujaa is poised to defend their Africa Sevens title this weekend in Mauritius.

The team go to the tournament in high spirits and robust preparation, determined to replicate last year’s stellar performance, where they stunned the South Africa Blitzboks 17-12 to clinch the title and secure a coveted spot in the upcoming Paris Olympic Games.

In the group stage, Kenya has been drawn in Group A alongside Mauritius, Madagascar, and Nigeria.

Shujaa will kick off their campaign against Mauritius at 9:50am Kenyan time, followed by matches against Nigeria at 12:34pm and Madagascar at 3:18pm.

Head coach Louis Kisia expressed confidence in his squad and their readiness for the challenge.

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“We’ve had sufficient preparations at Kasarani ahead of the Africa Sevens this weekend. Thanks to the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) and the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) for ensuring the side trains with the main squad,” said Kisia.

“We have had high-performance sessions led by the Kenya Sevens Strength and Conditioning coach, Andrew Amonde, which have significantly contributed to our preparations for this tournament.

“We have received input from the head coach on our preparations, and I believe the team is ready to roar in Mauritius.”

The traveling squad for the tournament includes a blend of experienced players and promising new talent. Most of the team members are returning players from previous tournaments.

The squad features Joel Inzuga, who has represented the Morans before, and Harmony Wamalwa, a part of the larger squad setup.

Brian Mutua, Ben Salem, Denis Abukuse, Elvis Olukusi, Festus Shiasi, William Mwanji, Richard Liva, and Gabriel Ayimba have all been training with Shujaa during the HSBC Challenger Series period.

Edmund Anya makes a much-anticipated return since last season, bringing valuable experience to the setup.

The only new inclusion in the sevens setup is Victor “Mola” Odhiambo, who has been on the Kenya Sevens Management radar.

Mola was previously called up to the team but missed the opportunity to play for Kenya Sevens due to an injury.

Kisia emphasised the team’s objective for the tournament: “Our target in Mauritius is the gold medal. We want to replicate our performance during the 2023 Rugby Africa Sevens tournament.”