Kenya’s national rugby sevens team, Shujaa, has unveiled its squad for the third leg of the HSBC SVNS Series, the Perth 7s, scheduled to take place from January 24 to January 26 in Australia. The announcement comes with exciting returns for key players Vincent Onyala and Brian Tanga, bolstering Shujaa’s prospects in the tournament.
Key Players Return: Onyala and Tanga Ready to Shine
Former Kenya Sevens captain Vincent Onyala headlines the squad after resolving contractual issues that sidelined him for the opening legs in Dubai and Cape Town. A standout performer for KCB Rugby, Onyala’s leadership and experience are expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s efforts to build on their seventh-place finish in Cape Town.
Brian Tanga, a talented scrum-half from Kabras Sugar RFC, is also back in the squad after recovering from a wrist injury that kept him out of action during the Dubai and Cape Town legs. Tanga, who missed significant playing time in 2024, including the Safari Sevens and the National Sevens Circuit, is eager to make a memorable comeback.
Anthony Omondi, another experienced player, retains his spot in the squad after rejoining the team in Cape Town. Omondi stepped up to fill the gap left by Chrissant Ojwang, who suffered an injury during the Dubai 7s.
Shujaa’s Strong Squad for Perth 7s
Head coach Kevin Wambua has opted to maintain much of the squad that performed admirably in Cape Town, with George Ooro continuing as team captain. Ooro will be supported by vice-captain Samuel Asati, a reliable scrum-half from KCB Rugby.
The squad features a blend of youth and experience, with players from Kenya’s top rugby clubs:
- George Ooro (Captain) – Hard-hitting forward with excellent leadership qualities.
- Samuel Asati (Vice-Captain) – Scrum-half known for his strategic vision.
- Vincent Onyala – Versatile player returning to provide stability and attacking flair.
- Brian Tanga – Scrum-half bringing creativity and playmaking skills.
- Patrick Odongo – Speedster from Daystar Falcons, offering blistering pace.
- Dennis Abukuse – Menengai Oilers powerhouse, adding strength to the pack.
- Nygel Amaitsa – Strathmore Leos’ kicking maestro, crucial in set-piece scenarios.
- William Mwanji – Kabras RFC talent with a robust defensive game.
- Floyd Wabwire – Another promising prospect from Daystar Falcons.
- Festus Shiasi – KCB Rugby’s dependable forward.
- Anthony Omondi – Experienced playmaker with excellent game management.
- Benson Salem – Dynamic and versatile player with great potential.
- Kevin Wekesa – Forward offering physicality and resilience.
Preparing for a Tough Pool
Kenya has been drawn into a challenging pool for the Perth 7s, facing some of the top teams in the series. Building on their seventh-place finish in Cape Town, the team is determined to make a stronger impact in Australia.
Here’s the schedule for our pool matches at #Perth7s! On Friday, 24th, we’ll face New Zealand and Fiji, followed by a clash with Uruguay on Saturday, 25th.#Shujaa #MpesaPowersKenya7s #SafaricomRugby #SportpesaNaShujaa pic.twitter.com/cLKX1iHGzo
— Shujaa (@KenyaSevens) January 13, 2025
To ensure optimal performance, Shujaa has been training at Menengai Oilers’ facility in Nakuru, refining their skills and strategies under the guidance of head coach Kevin Wambua. The camp focused on improving defensive structures, enhancing tactical awareness, and maximizing the potential of key players like Onyala, Tanga, and Odongo.
Momentum from Cape Town: Confidence Booster
Shujaa’s seventh-place finish in Cape Town serves as a confidence booster heading into the Perth 7s. The team demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline, defeating several strong opponents and showcasing their potential on the global stage.
Coach Kevin Wambua emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum and consistency:
“We are proud of the team’s effort in Cape Town, but the goal is to improve with every tournament. Perth presents a new challenge, and we are prepared to give our best and represent Kenya with pride.”
Kenya’s Legacy in Rugby Sevens
Kenya Sevens has a storied history in the HSBC SVNS Series, known for their electrifying pace and physicality. Over the years, the team has achieved significant milestones, including a historic victory at the Singapore Sevens in 2016. As they aim to reclaim their status as a top contender, the return of seasoned players like Onyala and Tanga provides a much-needed boost.
Shujaa’s Mission in Perth
With the Perth 7s serving as a crucial leg in the series, Shujaa is determined to continue their upward trajectory. The squad’s blend of experience and emerging talent positions them as a team capable of delivering memorable performances and inspiring fans back home.
The road ahead is challenging, but with a reinvigorated lineup and the guidance of coach Kevin Wambua, Kenya Sevens is ready to take on the world’s best and make a statement in Australia.
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