The Kenya Sevens rugby team, popularly known as Shujaa, has officially announced a 36-man provisional squad ahead of the upcoming Safari 7s tournament. The Safari 7s, one of the most prestigious rugby sevens tournaments in Africa, has long been a platform for Kenya to showcase its talent and competitive edge. This year’s squad combines both experienced players and emerging talents, a blend that will be key as the team prepares not only for the Safari 7s but also for the HSBC Sevens World Series (SVNS).
Key Players in the Provisional Squad
Among the standout names in the squad is Kevin Wekesa, a star player for Kabras RFC, who has consistently demonstrated his skill and leadership on the field. Wekesa’s inclusion comes as no surprise given his pivotal role in Kenya’s rugby sevens team during the 2024 Olympics, where he gained valuable international experience. His return to the squad is expected to provide Shujaa with the tactical advantage they need to excel in the upcoming tournament.
Brian Mutua, Patrick Lumumba, and Jackson Siketa, all from Kabras RFC, join Wekesa in representing the team at Safari 7s. These players have proven themselves in the National Sevens Circuit and are key figures in the team’s forward and backline play. With their diverse skill sets, Kabras RFC’s representation in the squad highlights the club’s contribution to Kenya’s sevens rugby success.
Contributions from Strathmore Leos and Kenya Harlequin
Strathmore Leos and Kenya Harlequin, two powerhouses of Kenyan rugby, have also made significant contributions to the squad. George Ooro, a hard-hitting forward from Strathmore Leos, will be looking to make a lasting impact with his physical style of play. He is joined by Gabriel Ayimba, son of the late rugby legend and former Kenya Sevens coach Benjamin Ayimba. The inclusion of players from the Leos, who were the 2024 Prinsloo 7s champions, ensures that the squad benefits from the experience gained during the National Sevens Circuit.
On the other hand, Kenya Harlequin’s players, including David Williams and Leonard Fogang, also bring their prowess to the team. Herman Humwa and Amon Wamalwa, both part of the Harlequins’ setup, will provide additional depth, particularly in set-pieces and defense. These players’ familiarity with high-stakes matches will be invaluable as Shujaa seeks to maintain its dominance in the Safari 7s tournament.
New Faces and Young Talents
In addition to seasoned players, the provisional squad includes several younger talents who will be looking to prove themselves. Jackson Siketa of Kabras RFC and Elton Amalemba from Strathmore Leos are two young players who have caught the eye with their performances in the National Sevens Circuit. Their inclusion in the provisional squad is an opportunity for them to shine on the international stage and gain valuable experience in a competitive setting.
Another exciting prospect is Vincent Onyala, co-captain of the Kenya Sevens team and a player known for his speed and agility. Onyala, along with former Kabras RFC lock Elvis Olukusi and scrum-half Samuel Asati, will be pivotal in Shujaa’s gameplay, particularly in creating scoring opportunities from broken play situations. These players are expected to play a crucial role in transitioning the team from defense to attack and leading the offensive charge.
Assistant Coach Louis Kisia on Team Preparations
Speaking about the squad’s preparations, assistant coach Louis Kisia emphasized the importance of focus and consistency. He explained that the 36-man squad will be trimmed down to 26 players who will represent Kenya Sevens (Shujaa) and Kenya Morans at the Safari 7s. Kisia noted that while the players had performed well during the National Sevens Circuit, they will need to replicate that form in training to make the final cut.
“These players were outstanding during the circuit and will have to replicate that form in training. By Shujaa being the defending champions, we must have a strong team. It will be a blend of youth and experience, which can go all the way and retain the title,” Kisia said.
Kisia’s emphasis on youth and experience is part of the strategy to build a versatile and resilient team. The assistant coach confirmed that the final selection of 26 players will also serve as a foundation for the upcoming HSBC SVNS season, which kicks off in Dubai later this year. With an eye on both short-term and long-term goals, the team is being prepared to perform at the highest level in both regional and global tournaments.
Safari 7s: A Platform for Young Talent and Veterans Alike
The Safari 7s has historically been a launching pad for Kenya’s rugby talent, and this year’s edition will be no different. As the defending champions, Shujaa will not only have the pressure of retaining their title but also the added responsibility of preparing for the HSBC Sevens World Series. The tournament will serve as a testing ground for new tactics and combinations, allowing the coaching staff to gauge how well the younger players can integrate with the veterans.
This year marks the 26th edition of the @safarisevens tournament, which will be held in Machakos from 11th to 13th October 2024.
More details on the poster .#Safari7s pic.twitter.com/ZVbxbac7bH— #Safari7s (@safarisevens) September 21, 2024
Players like Felix Okoth, Dennis Abukuse, and John Okoth are eager to seize their opportunity to play alongside more experienced figures like Michael Wamalwa and Patrick Odongo. The blend of youth and experience is expected to be the hallmark of this year’s team, with veterans guiding the younger players through the intensity of high-level competition.
Path to the HSBC Sevens World Series
While the immediate focus is on the Safari 7s, the ultimate goal for the Kenya Sevens team is the HSBC Sevens World Series, where the competition is fiercer, and the stakes are higher. As the provisional squad begins its training regimen, it will be crucial for the coaching staff to find the right balance between preparing for the regional Safari 7s tournament and setting the foundation for success in the global series.
By the time the squad is narrowed down to 26 players, the team will be expected to gel and fine-tune their strategies ahead of the first leg of the World Series in Dubai. With the spotlight on players like Vincent Onyala, Kevin Wekesa, and rising stars like Jackson Siketa, Shujaa is well-positioned to make a mark both locally and internationally.
A Strong Squad for a Prestigious Tournament
The 36-man provisional squad announced by the Kenya Sevens team for the Safari 7s showcases a mix of experience, youthful energy, and tactical prowess. With key players from top Kenyan rugby clubs, Shujaa is poised to defend their title and set the stage for a successful HSBC Sevens World Series campaign. The coaching staff, led by assistant coach Louis Kisia, is focused on building a team capable of competing at the highest levels, with an eye on both short-term success at Safari 7s and long-term goals in international tournaments.
As Shujaa gears up for the Safari 7s, all eyes will be on the final 26 players selected to represent the nation. This tournament will not only test Kenya’s rugby talent but also serve as a stepping stone for future international successes.
