How Lionesses squad for Challenger Series was selected

On Sunday 7 January 2023, Kenya Lionesses head coach Dennis Mwanja announced the squad that will be on duty during the World Rugby HSBC Challenger 2024 series slated for 12-14 January in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Speaking on the selection criteria, Mwanja who is a former Shujaa skipper noted that several considerations were put in place.

Shujaa, Lionesses squads for Challenger Series assignment released

Mwanja pointed out that the squad is a mixture of experience, impressive form, and a sense of maturity on the field. He further noted that the young and vintage players had seamlessly blended, setting them up for exciting matches ahead.

"In assembling our squad, we considered a blend of experience, current form, and maturity on the field. Striking a delicate balance between youthful vigor, seasoned expertise, and leadership qualities was paramount," Mwanja offered.

Having all it takes to build a formidable squad, the former Shujaa captain was confident that his charges would set up a stunning show.

"It is upon this combination that we place our trust to deliver the desired results in the upcoming event," he averred.

The squad has been bolstered by the return of Sheila Chajira, who was part of the Lionesses squad that reached the final of the Safari 7s.

KRU seals deal with international brand ahead of Challenger Series

This will be her first appearance for the sevens national team since the Tokyo Olympics in August 2021.

Grace Okulu takes on skipper duties.

Mwanja will also enjoy the services of lanky speedster Sharon Auma who is making a return from a leg injury. Talented scrum-half Judith Auma, Maureen Muritu, and Janet Okello have been included in the squad.

"This is a long-term dream for me. I am looking to give my best to ensure the Lionesses emerge victorious in this competitive tournament," Auma told Mozzart Sport.

The fleet-footed winger was part of the team that represented Serengeti Elephants in the 2023 Rugby 10s Championship that happened at the Charles Morkel Stadium in Strand, Cape Town in November last year. She will be keen to copy-paste the performance to propel the Lionesses to greatness.

Mwanja also revealed that the Lionesses would be taking one game at a time. They are placed in Pool B of the women’s competition and will kick off their campaign with a match against China at 11:36 EAT on Friday, January 12, 2024.

Subsequently, they will go head-to-head with Czechia at 15:58 EAT on the same day. They will wrap up their pool fixtures against Mexico at 10:59 EAT on Saturday, January 13.

"Taking a measured approach, we are approaching the tournament one game at a time. A thorough analysis of our opponents reveals their worth, but our team is grounded in self-belief and quietly confident in our capabilities. Our focus on staying fresh, being fully prepared, and maintaining a hunger for victory will be the key factors that carry us through the competition," he concluded.