Olympians to captain Kenya Sevens

Today at 05:40 AM

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Kenya's Sevens coach Kevin Wambua has named two Olympians in his squad for the 2024/2025 HSBC World Sevens Series in Dubai.

Samuel Asati and George Ooro were named as co-captains of the Shujaa.

They replace Tony Onyango and Vincent Onyala who still have contractual disputes with the Kenya Rugby Union.

Asati and Ooro played at the Safari Sevens in Machakos and head coach Kevin Wambua expects Onyala and Onyango to return to their captaincy roles when the series heads to Perth, Australia in January.

The Dubai Sevens will run from November 30 to December 1, marking Kenya Sevens' much-anticipated return to the global stage.

Key players in the squad include Kelvin Wekesa, William Mwanji, and Brian Mutua, while Olympians Chrisant Ojwang, Nygel Amaitsa, and the electrifying Patrick Odongo bring experience and pace. Newcomer Brayan Ondego will make his debut in Dubai, injecting fresh talent into the lineup.

Coach Wambua emphasized the team's readiness for the challenge. "We have a balanced squad blending youth and experience. Asati and Ooro's leadership will be pivotal as we aim for a strong start in Dubai," he stated.

Following the Dubai leg, Shujaa will immediately head to Cape Town for the second round of the series.

The team departs Nairobi on Monday, November 25, with high hopes of reclaiming their position among the world's rugby sevens elite.

Kenia squad: The full squad comprises Kevin Wekesa, George Ooro (co-captain), William Mwanji, Brian Mutua, Dennis Abukuse, Samuel Asati (co-captain), Nygel Amaitsa, Chrisant Ojwang, Patrick Odongo, Festus Shiasi, Benson Salem, Floyd Wabwire, and Brayan Ondego.