Kenya 7s fans were hit with a mix of surprise and excitement as head coach Kevin Wambua announced the team’s roster for the opening legs of the 2024/25 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, now rebranded as HSBC SVNS.
The squad features eight debutants and two new co-captains, with former captains Vincent Onyala and Tony Omondi notably absent due to unresolved contractual issues.
The 13-man squad represents a bold new chapter for Shujaa, Kenya’s national rugby sevens team. This is their return to the World Rugby Sevens Series after missing the previous season.
They reclaimed their core spot earlier this year in dramatic fashion by defeating Germany 33-15 in the 2024 Challenger Series final in Madrid.
The Dubai 7s will take place from 30 November to 1 December, with Cape Town hosting the second leg from 7-8 December. The tournaments promise tough competition, and Kenya’s revamped squad is ready to prove they belong among the best in the world.
The 2025 @SVNSSeries is around the corner. First up, the ever-electric @Dubai7s tournament!
We’re in Pool A alongside @FranceRugby @Blitzboks and @Aussie7s . #SportpesaNaShujaa #HSBC7s #Dubai7s pic.twitter.com/Db4CSnJ3ND
— Shujaa (@KenyaSevens) November 7, 2024
New Faces and Rising Stars
Headlining the squad is Patrick Odongo from Daystar Falcons, a rising star whose debut has been highly anticipated. He is joined by seven other new players, all eager to showcase their talent on the international stage:
- Samuel Asati (KCB)
- Chrisant Ojwang (Nakuru)
- Festus Shiasi (KCB)
- Brian Mutua (Kabras Sugar)
- William Mwanji (Kabras Sugar)
- Nygel Amaitsa (Strathmore Leos)
- Brian Ondego (Zetech Oaks)
While the newcomers bring youthful energy, the team will also benefit from the experience of seasoned players like Kevin Wekesa (Kabras Sugar), George Ooro (Strathmore Leos), Benson Salem (Nondies), Floyd Wabwire (KCB), and Dennis Abukuse (Menengai Oilers).
With former captains Vincent Onyala and Tony Omondi absent, the team will be led by newly appointed co-captains George Ooro and Samuel Asati. This leadership change signals a fresh approach as the team embarks on the highly competitive series.
Wambua addressed the absence of Onyala and Omondi, stating, “The two players will miss the first two outings due to contractual issues that have not yet been resolved. We are working to sort this out.”
New season for Kenya 7s
▪️ Bling names the first squad for Dubai, Cape Town 7s
▪️His thoughts on the Dubai 7s pool
▪️New season, reduced legs
▪️ Competitiveness of the series pic.twitter.com/nMJfG9UTgk— Eric Njiru (@EricNjiiru) November 21, 2024
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Tough Pool Draw in Dubai
Shujaa’s road back to prominence won’t be easy. They’ve been drawn into Pool A, where they’ll face some of the tournament’s toughest teams:
- France (Olympic champions)
- South Africa (Defending champions)
- Australia (2021 finalists)
This daunting lineup will test Kenya’s young squad right out of the gate, but it also offers an opportunity to make a statement.
In other pools, Pool B features Argentina (2024 World Series champions), Ireland, Great Britain, and Uruguay, while Pool C includes powerhouses Fiji and New Zealand, along with Spain and the USA.
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After Dubai, Shujaa will travel to Cape Town for the second leg of the series, set to take place at the iconic DHL Stadium. The event promises high-intensity rugby and a carnival atmosphere, building on the excitement from last year’s debut in South Africa.
The 2024/25 season is packed with action, including stops in Perth, Vancouver, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The series will culminate in the World Championship in Los Angeles in May 2025, where the top eight teams will compete for ultimate glory.
A Bright Future for Kenya 7s
Shujaa’s return to the HSBC SVNS is more than just a sporting comeback—it’s a chance to rebuild the team’s reputation on the global stage. The inclusion of new talent signals a long-term vision for Kenya 7s, ensuring a steady pipeline of players ready to compete at the highest level.
Coach Wambua’s decision to debut eight players reflects the team’s commitment to nurturing young talent while blending it with the experience of seasoned veterans. Fans are hopeful that this combination will reignite Shujaa’s competitive edge.
Adding to the optimism is the announcement of an 84 million shilling sponsorship deal from SportPesa, aimed at supporting Shujaa’s return to the series. The financial boost ensures the team has the resources needed to compete and excel throughout the season.
A Nation Rallies Behind Shujaa
Kenya 7s has always been a source of national pride, and fans are once again rallying behind the team. Social media is abuzz with messages of encouragement, with many praising the inclusion of young players and expressing optimism about Shujaa’s future.
