Shujaa Name Strong 13-Man Squad for HSBC SVNS 2 Legs in Valladolid and Bordeaux
Kenya Shujaa head coach Kevin Wambua has named a strong 13-man squad set to travel to Valladolid, Spain and Bordeaux, France for the second and third legs of the HSBC SVNS 2 Series as Kenya intensifies its push for a return to the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.
The squad features only two changes from the team that represented the country at the Hong Kong Sevens, highlighting the technical bench’s confidence in the core group that has impressed throughout the campaign. Leadership duties will be shared between experienced campaigners George Ooro and Samuel Asati, who will co-captain the side during the European tour.
Among the notable inclusions is Kevin Wekesa alongside key players Dennis Abukuse, John Okoth, and Vincent Onyala. Nygel Amaitsa, Patrick Odongo, and Festus Shafari have also retained their spots after consistent performances in previous outings.
Youngster David Nyangige has once again earned selection and will tour alongside seasoned veteran Brian Tanga, providing a balance of youthful energy and experience within the squad. Chrisant Ojwang returns to the team after missing out on the Hong Kong leg, while Victor Odhiambo, popularly known as “Mola,” is in line to make his long-awaited debut for Shujaa as he prepares for his maiden tour with the national side.
Speaking during the squad announcement, coach Wambua expressed confidence in his charges ahead of the crucial fixtures.
“The preparations have been good and the boys are ready. We are confident heading into these tournaments and now it is all about showing up, competing well, and representing the country with pride,” said Wambua.
Shujaa have enjoyed a commendable run in the HSBC SVNS 2 circuit so far and remain firmly focused on securing promotion back to the World Rugby Sevens main series.
Kenya will begin their Valladolid campaign with the opening fixture against Australia on 29th May at 1:12 PM EAT before taking on South Africa later the same day at 6:08 PM EAT. Their final pool match will be against Great Britain on 30th May at 2:02 PM EAT.
With momentum building and promotion within reach, Shujaa will be aiming to deliver another strong performance on the European leg as they continue their journey back to the global sevens elite.
