Shujaa Reload for Hong Kong as Bonus Boost Fuels Promotion Push

By KPC Sports Correspondent

Kenya Sevens, Shujaa, have named a strong squad for the opening leg of the HSBC SVNS World Championship in Hong Kong, with a performance bonus from SportPesa adding fresh motivation ahead of the April 17–19 showdown.

Head coach Kevin Wambua has largely retained the side that finished runners-up in the SVNS 2 series, making just one change.

Experienced scrum-half Brian Tanga returns to the fold, replacing Chrisant Ojwang, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Tanga, who debuted at the Hong Kong Sevens in 2016, is expected to inject composure and leadership into the squad.

“He brings a lot of experience to the side and is the kind of player you want in tight games. His understanding of the game is top-notch and we expect him to add immeasurable impact,” Wambua said.

Shujaa head into the tournament with a morale boost after SportPesa released a KSh 3.15 million bonus, unlocked through the team’s performances in Nairobi, Montevideo, and São Paulo.

The reward comes from a broader KSh 40 million sponsorship backing their SVNS 2 campaign, underlining growing belief in the team’s resurgence.

The squad is heavily drawn from reigning National Sevens Circuit champions KCB RFC, who provide six players including co-captains George “Japolo” Ooro and Samuel Asati, alongside Vincent Onyala, Festus Shiasi, Floyd Wabwire, and David Nyangige.

Kabras Sugar RFC contribute Tanga and Kevin Wekesa, while Menengai Oilers’ Denis Abukuse and John Okoth bolster the forward pack after standout defensive displays in São Paulo.

Additional firepower comes from Strathmore Leos kicker Nigel Amaitsa, Gabriel Ayimba, and pacey finisher Patrick Odongo, giving Shujaa a balanced mix of experience and youthful energy.

Co-captain Samuel Asati made it clear the team is aiming high despite a daunting pool. “We all know what’s at stake and we will have to raise our game. Focus is on the opener against Australia where we need a great performance to give us a strong foundation towards securing a top eight finish, which is our bare minimum,” he said.

Shujaa have been drawn in a tough Pool C alongside Australia, New Zealand, and the USA—sides considered sevens powerhouses.

The clash against the USA carries added edge after Kenya’s emphatic 31–14 revenge win in São Paulo, while encounters with Australia and New Zealand will test their tactical discipline and execution.

SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri expressed confidence in the team’s ability to rise to the occasion. “This team represents national pride and we know you belong in HSBC SVNS 1. When you put on that jersey, you carry the hopes of millions of Kenyans,” he said.

With fixtures set for the newly built Kai Tak Sports Stadium, the stage is set for a high-stakes campaign. Shujaa must finish inside the top eight across the World Championship legs in Hong Kong, Valladolid, and Bordeaux to secure promotion back to the elite HSBC SVNS 1 tier in 2027.

For a side rebuilding its identity and chasing redemption, Hong Kong could mark the turning point.