Kenya Rugby Sevens squad announced for HSBC Tournaments

By Robert Mutasi

The Kenya Rugby Union unveiled the Shujaa squad that is set to grace the fields of the upcoming HSBC Sevens Series tournaments in Dubai from November 30 to December 1, 2024, and in Cape Town on December 7 and 8, 2024.

This is in readiness for a statement on the pitch with a mix of both experience and budding talent.

The co-captains leading the Shujaa squad in the competitive legs are George Ooro and Samuel Asati, whose leadership and skill will be crucial in guiding the team through.

This appointment reflects the trust the coaching staff and the team have in them, owing to their consistent performances and tactical acumen.

The squad is loaded with dynamic forwards who include Kevin Wekesa, Denis Abukuse, and William Mwanji to add power and physicality to Kenya's game.

The players will be essential in ensuring the retention of possession and creating set-piece opportunities along with breakdowns.

The backs are spearheaded by the likes of Nygel Amaitsa, Patrick Odongo, and versatile player Festus Shiasi.

These backline players, renowned for their speed and agility, should make the track burn with explosive runs and important tries.

The sensational Patrick Odongo has shown good form in the domestic setup in recent fixtures, something that will make him a player to look out for during these tournaments.

The main contributors that round out the squad include Benson Salem, Floyd Wabwire, and Brayan Ondego, all of whom add breadth and depth to the team.

Each has shown great promise in both domestic and international circuits, which justifies their place in the national lineup.

Coach Kevin Wambua expressed optimism in the squad's potential, citing the hard work put in during training sessions.

"We have a solid mix of experienced players and young talent. Our focus is on executing our game plans and adapting to the challenges of each match. The boys are ready to give their all and represent Kenya with pride," Wambua stated.

Kenya's participation in the HSBC Sevens Series forms a vital part of their build-up for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The Dubai and Cape Town legs offer a chance to test strategies, develop cohesion, and gain valuable experience against some of the world's best teams.

The countdown for the Dubai Sevens is on, and anticipation is high for what looks like a thrilling season ahead for Kenya's rugby sevens team.