Safari Sevens: Shujaa seek to defend title amidst fierce competition

Kenya Shujaa celebrate with the 2023 Safari 7s title last year. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Kenya's Shujaa are gearing up to defend their Safari Sevens crown as the prestigious tournament kicks off at the Machakos Stadium.

This year's edition sees an exciting mix of homegrown talent, with Kenya fielding four squads-Shujaa, Morans, Lionesses, and Cubs-as they showcase their depth across both men's and women's rugby.

Shujaa, who are the top seeds, have been drawn in Group A alongside Zimbabwe, Lions Rugby, Qatar Rugby, and the Kenya Varsity Select team.

Having claimed the title with a commanding 19-0 win over Samurai 7s in last year's final, Shujaa are looking to complete a treble, having also won the 2021 edition.

Despite entering the tournament as favourites, Shujaa will be without several key players. Brian Tanga, John Okoth, Vincent Onyala, Tony Omondi, Kevin Wekesa, and Nygel Amaitsa are all unavailable for the event, posing a challenge for head coach Kevin Wambua.

However, the squad has been bolstered by the return of experienced playmaker Daniel Taabu, who is expected to play a crucial role in guiding the team through the group stages.

Joining Taabu in the lineup are exciting additions from Nakuru RFC, Philip Okeyo and Felix Okoth, while Jackson Siketi has been shifted to the Morans squad, which will compete in Group B.

Other notable players include William Mwanji and Brian Mutua, who played pivotal roles in Shujaa's resurgence during the HSBC Challenger Series last season.

Shujaa's squad also features some of the top performers from the local National Sevens Circuit, including top scorer Dennis Abukuse, playmaker Benson Salem, and speedster Brian Mutugi.

Promising young talent Gabriel Ayimba will also look to make his mark, while stalwarts George Ooro, Samuel Asati, and Patrick Odongo are expected to provide leadership and stability as Shujaa aim to retain their crown.

Shujaa's second-string side, the Morans, will be competing in Group B, where they face formidable opposition in Uganda, who finished third in the 2023 edition.

The group also includes the National Sevens Circuit champions, Kenya Harlequin, alongside invitational sides Shogun Rugby-last year's runner-up-and Red Wailers.

In the women's competition, the Kenya Lionesses will aim to reclaim the title after falling short in last year's final against Uganda. The competition will follow a round-robin format. Other teams include Costablanca Barbarians, Shogun, defending champions Uganda, and Kenya Cup.

Despite missing key players like Christable Lindo, Grace Okullo, Judith Okumu, and Stella Wafula, who are currently engaged with the Serengeti Elephants in the USA, the Lionesses will rely on experienced campaigners Sheila Chajira, Terry Ayesa, and Diana Kemunto.

Shogun will get the matches underway against Kenya Harlequin from 2pm.