Shujaa relegated from World Rugby Sevens Series for the first time in 20 years

Shujaa's Alvin Otieno in action during a past match.[Courtesy]

Kenya Sevens are out of the World Rugby Sevens Series.

Shujaa were relegated from the prestigious global event on Sunday evening after narrowly losing 12-5 to Canada in the relegation playoffs final at Twickenham Stadium in London.

The Damina McGrath charges needed to win the final to become the 12th core team of the world series next season and the defeat sees Kenya relegated.

Shujaa captain Nelson Oyoo led from the kick off with a three-minute try as Anthony Omondi converted for a 7-0 lead.

The match was stopped for five minutes when Kevin Wekesa clashed with a Canadian defender. The fans at Twickenham Stadium were delighted after Wekesa safely walked out of the pitch.

The long stoppage derailed Kenya's early attacking momentum as Canada restored parity at the stroke of halftime 7-7.

In the final half, Kenya were reduced to six men after John Okoth was sent to the bin. A series of poor decision making moments saw Shujaa surrender possession easily at the rack as Canada pushed their luck.

With a numerical advantage, the Canadians pushed Shujaa to their limits and scored with a minute left through Brock Webster.

With 15 seconds left, Canada kicked the ball to Shujaa who unluckily surrendered possession again to Canada after the hooter.

Canada kicked the ball out to win the relegation playoffs final 12-7.