L. MathekaCheruiyot looking to write history with Wafalme on debut
.jpg)
Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 26.01.24. | 16:26
The 24-year-old will vie for a starting berth against Shadrack Misiko, Brian Kamonde, and (KFS) Levis Ogutu
Equity Bank’s middle blocker Wilson Cheruiyot is set to make his debut for the national men’s volleyball team, Wafalme Stars, at the CAVB Zone Five Africa Games qualifiers set for 26 to 28 January in Cairo, Egypt.
The 24-year-old will vie for a starting berth against General Service Unit’s (GSU) Shadrack Misiko, Kenya Ports Authority’s (KPA) Brian Kamonde, Kenya Forest Services’ (KFS) Levis Ogutu. The trio already has international experience with Ogutu making a return to the team after missing last year’s championship assignment.
His inexperience aside, Cheruiyot is keen to write history with the national team, being part of the squad that makes it to the continental games after a 13-year absence. He also hopes the team can replicate the 2021 feat against Egypt, picking a win that would be Kenya’s second ever against the North Africans.
“It has taken hard work to make the squad and a lot is expected from me as we begin this competition. I have had a lot to learn from the experienced players who made the squad and that gives me confidence as I make my debut.
The expectation is to first qualify for the Africa Games in Ghana and beat Egypt while at it. The 2021 squad did it and I would love a repeat of the same with this squad,” said the middle blocker who made his first international appearance at the club championships in 2022.
WAFALME UNLEASHED Unity in motion, strength in passion. As we step onto the court, may every Spike, every Set, and every Block be a testament to our shared commitment. Together, we Soar. #AAGZoneVQualifiersCairo pic.twitter.com/fPx5oyaUAq
— Kenya Volleyball Federation (@KenyaVolley) January 24, 2024
Cheruiyot joined the bankers in 2019 from Cheptil and has been an integral part of the Sammy Kirongo-coached bankers, bringing them closer to playoff qualification in the last two seasons.
As he prepares to suit up against Egypt and Burundi, Cheruiyot believes this is a golden opportunity to showcase his talent and attract suitors as he aims to join the paid ranks outside the country soon.
The Kenyan men open their campaign against Burundi on Saturday 27 January before taking on Egypt a day later. The top two teams qualify for the continental extravaganza set for March in Ghana.
CAVB Zone Five qualifiers
January 26, 2024
Egypt vs Kenya (Women)- 1600hrs
Egypt vs Bururndi (Men)- 1800hrs
January 27, 2024
Kenya vs Egypt (Women) 1600hrs
Kenya vs Burundi (Men) 1800hrs
January 28, 2024
Egypt vs Kenya (Women's decider match) 1600hrs
Egypt vs Kenya (Men) 1800hrs
.jpg)
