Uganda 7s Series side Elgon Wolves RFC have been deducted points and fined UGX 300,000 ( Kshs 11,000) for fielding Michael Ochieng.
According to a statement by Uganda Rugby Union, the seven organizing committee review determined that Ochieng was not in their official 40-man squad and had been listed as Benjamin Miguel during the Kabale 7s.
The committee also established that Ochieng was registered at Kenya Harlequin and had featured in the National 7s Circuit.
“Following formal protests received during the Kabale 7s, the Uganda Sevens Organizing Committee has concluded its review into player eligibility concerns. The player Micheal Ochieng, who is not listed on Elgon Wolves RFC’s official 40-man squad, was unlawfully fielded during the Kabale 7s while presenting himself under the identity of Benjamin Miguel,” the Union statement revealed.
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‘This action contravenes World Rugby Regulation 4 and Clause 1.7 of the Uganda Sevens Series Manual, which prohibit the use of unregistered or ineligible players. Evidence also confirms that Ochieng is registered with Harlequins RFC in Kenya and recently represented them in the Kenya National Sevens Circuit,” the statement added.
“In line with the Tournament Manual, the following sanctions have been applied:
All points (10) earned at Kabale 7s have been deducted. A fine of UGX 300,000 is imposed, payable before participation in the Buffaloes 7s. A formal warning has been issued to the Club regarding future compliance. The player is barred from taking part in the Nile Special Uganda Sevens Series until proper documentation is presented and verified,” the statement added.
“These actions have been taken to safeguard the integrity and fairness of the 2025 Nile Special Uganda Sevens Series as we head into the Buffaloes 7s finale.
Elgon Wolves RFC have the right to appeal this decision to the Uganda Rugby Union Technical Committee within the stipulated timeframe.
