Key player misses as Odongo names Lionesses squad for HSBC SVNS legs

The Kenya Lionesses will travel to the upcoming Montevideo and Sao Paulo legs of the HSBC SVNS 2 Series without one of their key players, Grace Adhiambo.

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Adhiambo will miss the two crucial tournaments as she will be on duty with her France-based club, Racing 92, which is entering an important phase of its season.

Her absence is a notable blow for the Lionesses, who are seeking to improve their standing in the competition as they push for better results in the remaining legs of the series.

Head coach Simon Odongo has, however, welcomed back a number of players who had been sidelined in recent months. Among them is talented scrum-half Judith Auma, who returns to the squad after a lengthy spell out with injuries.

Auma has struggled with fitness issues since last year and missed several major tournaments, including the Safari 7s in October, the Africa Women’s 7s in November, and the opening leg of the Division 2 series held in Nairobi last month.

Also making a return is Faith Livoi, who had been left out of the squad for the Division 2 first leg but has now been recalled for the South American tour.

Phoebe Akinyi, who featured in the Africa Women’s 7s and the Nairobi leg of the World Rugby Series Division 2 competition, misses out on selection this time round.

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Charity Nilah and Marvel Oswago have retained their places in the squad after making their maiden appearances during last month’s competition.

The team will once again be anchored by experienced campaigners, including captain Sheila Chajira, Janet “Shebesh” Okello, Sinaida Nyachio, speedster Freshia Oduor, and Stella Wafula.

The Lionesses head into the Montevideo leg facing an uphill task as they currently sit fifth in the standings with six points, just one place above bottom-placed Brazil.

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They will kick off their campaign at Estadio Charrua against China on Saturday at 5 p.m. Kenyan time.

After the Montevideo leg, the Lionesses, alongside their male counterparts, Shujaa, will proceed to Sao Paulo, Brazil, for the third leg of the series, scheduled for March 27-28.