Challenger Series: Three debutants in as Kenya 7s announce squad for Uruguay leg

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RUGBY Challenger Series: Three debutants in as Kenya 7s announce squad for Uruguay leg

Festus Chuma 10:09 - 28.02.2024

Kenya Sevens head coach Kevin Wambua has announced a squad with five changes for the Challenger Series second leg in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Kenya Sevens head coach Kevin Wambua has unveiled a revamped squad eager to extend their lead in the ongoing Challenger Series, as they prepare for the second leg set to unfold in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Following an electrifying victory in the opening round in Dubai, Wambua has introduced five strategic changes to the team, signaling a bold move to maintain their dominance in the series.

The refreshed lineup sees the return of seasoned players Dennis Abukuse and Ben Salem, alongside the promising debutants Lamec Ambetsa, Chrisant Ojwang, and Elvis Olukusi.

Kenya's squad has undergone notable adjustments, particularly with the absence of Patrick Odongo, the top scorer with 11 tries in Dubai, who is currently on the mend from an injury.

Brian Tanga's recovery from illness and the exclusion of Festus Shiasi, William Mwanji, and Brian Mutugi from the travel team further underline the tactical recalibration by the coaching staff.

The team is led by co-captains Vincent Onyala and Tony Omondi, who are expected to guide Shujaa through the rigorous competition in South America.

With a blend of experience and fresh talent, Kenya Sevens is looking to maintain its lead in the competition standings, having edged out formidable opponents in the first leg.

Shujaa's journey in Dubai was nothing short of spectacular, clinching the cup final against Chile with a narrow 12-5 victory, thanks in large part to Odongo's decisive tries.

Holding the pole position with 20 points, Kenya has a slender lead over Chile, setting up a thrilling contest in Montevideo as they aim to extend their lead and fortify their dominance in the series.

Shujaa are placed in Pool A, where they will compete against Tonga, Georgia, and Portugal setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling contest.

Pool B includes the formidable Chile, alongside Hong Kong and Mexico, while Pool C will see Uruguay, Germany, Uganda, and Papua Guinea vying for supremacy.

Shujaa squad

Vincent Onyala (KCB, Co-Captain), Tony Omondi (Mwamba, Co-Captain), Kevin Wekesa (Kabras Sugar), John Okoth (Menengai Oilers), George Ooro (Strathmore Leos), Nygel Amaitsa (Strathmore Leos), Samuel Asati (KCB), Dennis Abukuse ( Menengai Oilers), Ben Salem (Nondescripts), Chrisant Ojwang (Nakuru, debut), Lamec Ambetsa (Kabras Sugar, debut), Elvis Olukusi (KCB, debut)

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