.jpg)
T. NashipaeKenyan wingers Auma and Shikoli flying high in South Africa
Reading Time: 3min | Sat. 25.11.23. | 13:30
Through its franchises, each fielding R10C team, is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in rugby
Kenyan speedsters Sharon Auma and Collins Shikoli are living the dream after representing the Serengeti Elephants in the 2023 Rugby 10s Championship taking place at the Charles Morkel Stadium in Strand, Cape Town.
The competition was played on November 18, and 22, with the last match set for Saturday 25, 2023.
Auma was part of the Kenya Lionesses squad that represented Kenya in the 2023 Africa Women's 7s tournament in Tunisia where they finished second.
She then joined the squad in Dubai for the WXV3 tournament where they defeated Colombia 21-5 to retain their status.
.jpg)
The lanky winger was joined in South Africa by Christabel Lindo, Judith Okumu, Stella Wafula, and Grace Okulu.
The Elephants have been on their own form, kicking off their hunt with a 19-7 win over Cape Town Wild Dogs.
They would then see off Rhinos 19-7, before emerging 48-0 winners over W.P Rugby.
They advanced to the semifinals, and the Lionesses quintet now find themselves on the brink of potential Championship glory with Saturday, November 25th set as the ultimate showdown at the Franchise Cup Final with the winner set to claim the coveted title and seize the R340,000 prize money.
"South Africa is amazing. I'm enjoying my time with different people from different nationalities. We have gelled very fast and it explains our good performance. We look forward to ending our stay here on a high note," Auma told Mozzart Sport.
On the men's side, the fleet-footed Shikoli was glad that he was gaining a wealth of experience. The Serengeti Elephants kicked off their hunt with a narrow 14-17 loss to Honey Badgers before picking wins over WP Rugby 25-0, and Rhinos San Clemente (19-7).
They will be keen to extend their fine run.
"The experience is really great, one of the best tournaments I’ve played. Great competition and talent here. The teams are nicely balanced with experience and young players. So much to learn and get from this tournament considering the fact that SA is one of the countries with the best rugby talent in Africa and in the world of course," Shikoli offered.
Shikoli became a household name in Kenyan rugby during his tenure with Homeboyz RFC, where he has played over 1,000 matches for the side.
It was during that period when Homeboyz RFC rose to two Kenya Cup semi-final appearances, won the Enterprise Cup, and won two National 7s circuits in 2022.
He made his international debut in the 2021/22 HSBC London 7s during Innocent 'Namcos' Simiyu’s reign.
He will be looking to propel the Elephants to greatness, when they line up for their final match on Saturday.
Joining him in representing the Elephants are fellow Kenyan Internationals Oscar Ouma, Alvin Marube, and Michael Agevi.
"From my franchise, the Serengeti Elephants, we expect to show up at the party again for this last round and of course, get away with the trophy. The competition is tough but our coaches, Frankie Horne, and Dave Clancy have equipped us nicely and even gave more clarity with today's session. So we have all the tools in the toolbox," he concluded.
.jpg)
This championship not only features seasoned campaigners but also introduces exciting new prospects and international rugby stars who have left their mark on the world stage, including the Olympics and the World Cup.
The international flavor of the tournament is evident with sevens players from across the globe, including those who have proudly represented their countries in prestigious events like the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and the HSBC 7s Series.
Additionally, a contingent of 15s players with international experience on the global stage will also grace the tournament.
