The Kenya Lionesses squad has been finalized for the Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens tournament, set for November 9-10 at the University of Ghana.
Head coach Dennis Mwanja has included Faith Livoi, who impressed during the recent Safari Sevens, where the Lionesses took second place. This tournament will mark Livoi’s debut for the national team.
Kenya Lionesses boost
The Lionesses are further strengthened by the return of key players Judith Auma, Grace Adhiambo, Christabel Lindo, and Stella Wafula, who had missed the Safari Sevens while competing with the Serengeti Elephants in the Rugby 10s Championship.
Kenya Lionesses Stella Wafula receieves PoTM award against Madagascar. PHOTO/Mahlon Lichuma
Top try and points scorer from the Safari Sevens, Freshia Oduor, retains her place in the squad, joined by regulars Moreen Muritu, Sinaida Mokaya, Diana Kemunto, and team captain Sheila Chajira. Flyer Sharon Auma also returns to the team, recovering from a concussion sustained during the Safari Sevens.
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The tournament’s Pool A sees defending champions South Africa, who won the 2023 edition by defeating the Lionesses, pitted against Tunisia, Zimbabwe, and Burkina Faso. Pool B includes Kenya Lionesses, who will take on Madagascar, hosts Ghana, and Mauritius. Pool C features Uganda Lady Cranes, Zambia, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire.
Kenya Lionesses in a past event. PHOTO/ Matchz Media
The top two teams will secure qualification for the Challenger Series, with South Africa looking to regain core status after losing it in a 22-0 shootout against Spain in the SVNS.
Kenya Lionesses Squad:
-
- Sheila Chajira (Captain)
- Christabel Lindo
- Faith Livoi*
- Stella Wafula
- Diana Awino
- Moreen Muritu
- Sinaida Mokaya
- Diana Kemunto
- Judith Auma
- Grace Adhiambo
- Sharon Auma
- Freshia Oduor
