Pulse Sports Rugby Star of the Week: Sinadia Nyachio Mokaya of Kenya Lionesses

Christabel Lindo’s impact so far at the ongoing Rugby Africa Women’s Cup competition in Madagascar has helped Kenyan Lionesses to stay in with a chance of lifting the trophy.

Every week, Pulse Sports will be profiling one rugby star of the week, both locally and abroad as part of our efforts to provide more coverage to the game.

After South Africa had gone 19-0 ahead by the 70th minute of their second clash against Kenya’s Lionesses at the ongoing Rugby Africa Women's Cup, it looked unlikely they would mount a comeback, having struggled to break through their defence despite being relatively resolute.

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However, the game sprung to life for the Kenyans, who scored two late tries - with one converted-, but it was not enough to make them turn around the result.

Freshia Awino landed Kenya’s first try when she got on the end of a good pass by Christabel Lindo before speeding her way into the try box from the left wing, before Noleen Khaleyi made it two  off a powerful maul.

Although many will give Moreen Muritu flowers for her impact particularly in the second match, where her clever penalty paved the way for Khaleyi’s try and also made the pre-assisting pass for Awino’s try, Mokaya’s composure from full back, as well as kicking range, has allowed Kenya to take the game to their oppositions more often.

With two assured performances against Madagascar and South Africa, Nyachio earns this week’s Rugby Star of the Week title for her poise, precision, and playmaking brilliance.

Calm in the Chaos

In Kenya’s tournament-opening 28–5 win over Madagascar, it was Nyachio who kept the backline ticking. 

Not only did she score a try of her own, but she also slotted in key conversions and directed traffic from midfield with calm assurance. 

Her spatial awareness and game management were evident in every phase — from choosing when to kick for territory to spotting gaps in the defense.

Against a spirited and physical South African side, Nyachio again rose to the occasion. 

Though Kenya trailed 19–0 at one point, she played a crucial role in the Lionesses’ late surge, converting a try and guiding the attack with well-weighted passes and tactical kicks. 

Even under heavy pressure, she remained composed — a quality that separated her from the pack.

Why Nyachio Has Been Outstanding

What makes Nyachio exceptional is her temperament. She is not a tump-thumping leader, but she lets her boot and vision do the talking. Whether delivering a floating pass out wide or nudging a kick into the corner, she exudes the kind of control usually seen in more seasoned professionals.

Her versatility is another asset — equally comfortable as a kicker, runner, and playmaker. 

That multidimensional approach has made her the glue in Kenya’s backline, especially important with the Lionesses facing teams known for their defensive pressure and physicality.

With Kenya now looking ahead to their final group clash against Uganda, all eyes will again be on Nyachio to steer the team. If her performances so far are any indication, the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup could be her breakout tournament.

In a squad brimming with heart and hustle, Sinaida Nyachio stands out for her intelligence, consistency, and quiet dominance — and she’s doing it all with the future of Kenyan women’s rugby watching closely.

Notable Stats

1 try vs. Madagascar

1 conversion vs. South Africa