Kenya Lionesses squad for World Rugby Challenge Series named

Lioness 1 Grace Adhiambo (center) of is tackled by Uganda's dou Zindale Masuku (left) and Aphiwe Ngwevu during the 23rd Edition 2021 Safari 7s tournament at The Nyayo National stadium on Saturday. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] .

As Kenya prepares to take part in World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series in Santiago, Chile next week, Kenya Lionesses head coach Dennis Mwanja has named a squad of 12 experienced players who are expected to jet out this week for the three-day tournament.

The tournament, which will be held on August 12-14 has seen Kenya placed in Pool D with hosts Chile, China and South Africa.

Mwanja was confident of a formidable performance against the three sides after the male side, Shujaa was eliminated from the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham which forced them to shift their focus to HSBC World Sevens Series.

He named Judith Auma as the team captain.

While explaining that they are in the process of rebuilding the team, Mwanja said he has seen talent in the players selected and was ready to pick from where his predecessors had left.

"We are coming from a background of rebuilding the team, and also there has been a lot of transition in the team. We've had to pick up the pieces but I'm glad I have seen a lot of positives in the team. This is a team that is determined, focused and working with a purpose.", he told Standard Sports.

He said he expects an exciting tournament in the South American country as the team know their expectations.

"We are looking forward to a very exciting tournament in Chile. The girls know what we can achieve," he said.

Team Captain Auma (Judith) said: "As we head out to Chile, our expectations are high. The coach has done his job and it is our turn to do our bit."

Kenya Rugby Union Secretary Ian Mugambi wished the team well and assured them of their support.

The Lionesses who are in Pool D begin their campaign with a clash against China on August 12 at 9.01 pm EAT before taking on continental rivals South Africa at 2.37am EAT the following day on August 13. They wind up their pool matches with a match against hosts Chile at 5.34pm EAT on August 13.

The Challenger Series serves as the qualification tournament for the 2022/23 World Rugby Sevens Series.

Lionesses Challenger Series Squad

Judith Auma (Captain), Laurine Otieno, Stellah Wafulah, Linet Moraa, Grace Okulu, Leah Wambui, Sinaida Nyachio, Jean Bisela, Janet Okello, Naomi Amuguni, Christabel Lindo, Ann Gorreti Ochieng

Management: Dennis Mwanja (Head Coach), Samuel Kimotho (Assistant Coach), Ben Mahinda (Physio), Camilyne Oyuayo (Team.