Shujaa all set for Dubai 7s showdown

The Kenya Rugby 7s team, Shujaa, is gearing up for yet another thrilling competition as they prepare to take on the Dubai 7s over the weekend. Assistant Coach Louis Kisia has shared insights into the team's mindset and preparations, shedding light on their readiness for the upcoming challenge.

Kisia echoed the sentiments expressed by team captain Vincent Onyala, drawing parallels between their current schedule and the high-paced HSBC series. The team's journey from the Safari Sevens to the imminent Dubai 7s reflects a sense of déjà vu, reminiscent of the back-to-back tournaments that characterize the rigorous world of rugby.

Despite the whirlwind of activities, Kisia emphasized that preparations have been nothing short of thorough. Following their spirited performance at the Safari Sevens, the team took a well-deserved break before diving back into training. Kisia revealed that the training regimen included sessions on Monday and Tuesday, with a strategic rest day on Wednesday to recharge the players' batteries.

"We are on rest today (Wednesday) then travel on Thursday. The mood in the team is perfect, the boys are upbeat and ready for the challenge," Kisia affirmed.

Crucially, Kisia highlighted that the team has set specific targets for the Dubai 7s. While remaining tight-lipped about the exact nature of these objectives, the assistant coach stressed the importance of hard work and flawless execution of individual roles to ensure the team's success. It's a testament to the team's commitment to excellence and their relentless pursuit of victory on the international stage.

“The preparations have been going on well. We rested after Safari Sevens and only trained on Monday and Tuesday. We are on rest today (Wednesday) then travel on Thursday. The mood in the team is perfect, the boys are upbeat and ready for the challenge. We have set targets, we now just have to work hard and execute our roles to ensure we achieve that.” Kisia added.

Shujaa, Lionesses rosters finalized ahead of Dubai tour

The tacticians have included the services of George Ooro who missed the team’s successful campaign at the Safari 7s due to injury.

They have opted to maintain the core of the squad that clinched Olympic qualification by securing victory at the Rugby Africa 7s in Harare, Zimbabwe, with Herman Humwa and Brian Mutugi retaining their spots from the Safari 7s. Vincent Onyala and Tony Omondi share the co-captaincy of the team.

Shujaa is assigned to Pool C in the Men’s International Invitation Category, competing alongside Speranza 22, R10C Selects, and Wailers.

Their pool stage begins at 2:40 pm EAT on Friday, December 1, against R1OC Selects. Following this, they proceed with a match against Wailers at 2:20 pm on Saturday, December 2, concluding their pool stage with a clash against Speranza 22 at 5:00 pm on the same day.

Friday, December 1, 2023

Shujaa vs R1OC Selects | 2:40 pm

Lionesses vs Ireland Invitational | 5:40 pm

Lionesses vs Rhino Stompers | 7:20 pm

Saturday, December 2, 2023

Shujaa squad: Anthony Omondi, Vincent Onyala (Co-Captains), Kevin Wekesa, John Okoth, Herman Humwa, William Mwanji, Brian Tanga, Samuel Asati, Nygel Amaitsa, Festus Shiasi, Patrick Odongo, Brian Mutugi, George Ooro