The Shujaa squad for the upcoming Safari 7s tournament at RFUEA Grounds has been announced, with coach Kevin Wambua maintaining most of the players who featured in the 2023 Africa Men’s tournament.
Only two changes have been made, with Herman Humwa and Brian Mutugi coming in to replace George Ooro and Beldad Ogeta, who were part of the 2023 African Champions team.
Shujaa co-captains
Vincent Onyala and Anthony Omondi will continue to lead the squad as captains, while Kevin Wekesa, John Okoth, and Brian Tanga retain their positions.
Kenya 7s (Shujaa) players react to Nelson Oyoo’s try against Tonga on day one of the HSBC London Sevens at Twickenham Stadium on 20 May, 2023 in London, United Kingdom. Photo credit: Mike Lee – KLC fotos for World Rugby
Samuel Asati, Nygel Amaitsa, Festus Shiasi, Patrick Odongo, and William Muhanji, who impressed during the Africa Men’s 7s, are set for their second tournament with Kenya 7s.
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Humwa is the only member of the 2021 Safari 7s winning squad in the current lineup. The 2021 squad, which secured victory at Nyayo Stadium with a 12-5 win over Germany in the cup finals, included players like Bush Mwale, Alvin Otieno, Johnstone Olindi, Levy Amunga, Edmund Anya, Alvin Marube, Collins Shikoli, Timothy Mmasi, Ben Salem, Brunson Mudigu, Archadius, and Khwesa.
In the 2021 final, fly-half Johnstone Olindi made a crucial sidestep to set up Alvin Otieno for a try under the posts, giving Shujaa a 7-0 lead after Levy Amunga’s successful conversion.
Kenya 7s (Shujaa) winger Patrick Odongo receives medal. Photo/Screengrab
Germany responded with a try from Jack Hunt, narrowing the score to 7-5. Despite being reduced to six men after Collins Shikoli received a yellow card for a high tackle, Shujaa held on with a spirited defense.
Captain Humwa led by example, and Johnstone Olindi scored another try to secure a 12-5 victory, making Shujaa the champions of the 2021 Safari 7s.
In other matches, Kenya Morans secured third place by defeating the Red Wailers 12-5, earning them the bronze medal.
Shujaa squad for 2023 Safari 7s
Shujaa: Vincent Onyala (Co-Captain), Kevin Wekesa,John Okoth, Herman Humwa, William Mwanji, Samuel Asati, Anthony Omondi (Co-Captain), Nygel Amaitsa, Patrick Odongo, Festus Shiasi, Brian Tanga, Brian Mutugi
