Kenya Lionesses learn opponents ahead of HSBC Challenger Series
.jpg)
Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 07.02.25. | 13:59
This year, Kenya aims to break the glass ceiling and qualify for the prestigious competition for the first time in their history
The national women’s rugby sevens team, Kenya Lionesses, are gearing up for another shot at history as they prepare for the HSBC Challenger Series.
The HSBC Challenger Series is the pathway through which they could qualify for the HSBC SVNS Series.
Kenya has been drawn in Pool D alongside familiar adversaries Poland and Samoa, setting the stage for intense battles in South Africa starting Saturday, March 1, 2025.
After narrowly missing out on a top-four finish last year, the Lionesses are more determined than ever to secure a slot.
In 2024, they finished fifth overall, just outside the play-off spots, while Poland took fourth place and advanced to the final shootout in Madrid.
This year, Kenya aims to break the glass ceiling and qualify for the prestigious competition for the first time in their history.
The Lionesses have already tasted their upcoming competition, having played a friendly match against Poland at the RFUEA Grounds last weekend.
Under the guidance of head coach Dennis ‘Ironman’ Mwanja, the Kenyan team edged Poland 19-12. This victory boosted their confidence ahead of the tournament.
This will not be the first competitive meeting between Kenya and Poland. The two teams clashed in the third leg of last year’s Challenger Series in Krakow, where the Poles triumphed 21-10 in the main cup semi-finals.
In another notable encounter, Kenya defeated Samoa 31-5 in the repechage tournament for the Paris Olympics qualifiers in Monaco.
Kenya will look to use their past experiences and improved preparations to dominate Pool D and advance further than last year. Their heartbreaking 19-12 loss to South Africa in the Challenger Series final still lingers, but it has also fueled their determination to go further.
Telecommunications giant Safaricom have also given the Lionesses' campaign a much-needed boost. This financial support is expected to enhance the team’s preparations and overall performance.
Hosts South Africa lead Pool A, where they will compete against the Czech Republic and Hong Kong China. Pool B features Argentina, newcomers Thailand, and Mexico, while Uganda, Belgium, and Colombia make up Pool C.
.jpg)
