© Tabby Nashipae
© Tabby Nashipae

Morans squad for Zambezi Sevens is announced as Daniel Kipchirchir makes international debut

Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 04.11.25. | 16:09

For Kipchirchir, the call-up is nothing short of a dream come true. The young flyer has been a familiar name on the local rugby scene, steadily climbing through the ranks with performances that demanded attention

Menengai Oilers’ speedster Daniel Kipchirchir is among the new faces set to make their international debut at the Zambezi Challenge 7s tournament, slated for Saturday, 8 to Sunday, 9 November in Harare, Zimbabwe.

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The event marks the Morans’ first assignment since their third-place finish at the Safari 7s in October.

For Kipchirchir, the call-up is nothing short of a dream come true. The young flyer has been a familiar name on the local rugby scene, steadily climbing through the ranks with performances that demanded attention.

Before earning his Morans cap, Kipchirchir had already shown flashes of brilliance. In 2024, he was part of the Kenya U20 side, Chipu, that made history by winning the Barthés Cup and qualifying for the World Rugby U20 Trophy in Scotland.

His electric pace and sharp instincts made him one of the standout players of the campaign.

When Menengai Oilers came calling in September 2024, Kipchirchir knew it was time to take the next step. Under the guidance of head coach Gibson Weru, he flourished and quickly adapted to senior rugby.

During the Oilers’ run to their second-ever Kenya Cup final, Kipchirchir was trusted with a starting berth, stepping up in the absence of veteran Beldad Ogeta, who was sidelined by injury and suspension.

Though Oilers narrowly lost 27–26 to Kabras Sugar, Kipchirchir’s consistency and composure made him one of the season’s biggest revelations.

His form carried over into the National Sevens Circuit, where he lit up tournaments with his pace and creativity.

At the Christie 7s, he was named in both the Main Dream Team and U20 Dream Team, and by the end of the six-leg circuit, he had featured in every U20 Dream Team and earned a spot in the Overall Dream Team of the tournament.

Such performances did not go unnoticed. When the Kenya Sevens named their 48-man training squad, Kipchirchir’s name appeared alongside established stars like Patrick Odongo and Floyd Wabwire.

Another headline name is Strathmore Leos’ prolific scorer Victor Mola, who also earns a deserved call-up.

Mola was one of the circuit’s most consistent performers, finishing as both top try-scorer and top points-scorer after crossing the line 42 times. His attacking brilliance was instrumental in helping the Leos secure second place in the overall series standings.

Daystar Falcons’ powerful ball carrier Clinton Amukwachi also makes the travelling squad. Amukwachi lit up the National Sevens Circuit with his physicality and ability to punch through defenses. He adds muscle to the Morans’ pack.

Kabras RFC’s promising youngster Jackson Siketi and Impala RFC’s dependable player David Nyangige, both of whom have been in fine form this season, are in the travelling squad.

The squad blends youth with experience, led by captain John Okoth, who returns to national duty after recovering from injury.

Experienced names such as Gabriel Ayimba, Floyd Wabwire, Dennis Abukuse, and Chrissant Ojwang will provide valuable leadership and balance to the youthful team.

The Zambezi Challenge 7s will feature host nation Zimbabwe, expected to field both a main and second side, alongside Zambia, Botswana, and several South African franchise teams.

Kenya Morans Squad – Zambezi Challenge 7s

John Okoth (Captain)

Brian Mutua

Clinton Amukwachi

Gabriel Ayimba

Denis Abukuse

David Nyangige

Rayvon Amunga

Jackson Siketi

Daniel Kipchirchir

Victor Odhiambo

Chrissant Ojwang

Floyd Wabwire


tags

Menengai OilersDaniel KipchirchirKenya MoransChrissant OjwangJohn OkothFloyd WabwireDennis AbukuseZambezi Challenge 7s

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