Simiyu keeps faith in youngsters as Shujaa prepares for Dubai 7s

Kenya Sevens head coach Innocent ‘Namcos’ Simiyu has banked his faith on the youth after naming three youngsters in his squad that will take part in the opening leg of 2021-2022 the World Sevens Series in Dubai on November 26-27.

Simiyu handed Kabras Sugar’s Kevin Wekesa and Tony Omondi from Mwamba their maiden senior team calls. The duo who are set for their debuts in Dubai are in the team alongside Masinde Muliro University’s Timothy Mmasi who made his debut two months ago.

The trio were included in a 14-man squad the departs for Dubai tomorrow as Namcos continues with his rebuilding process after the retirement of long-serving captain Andrew Amonde in August.

Speaking about the debutants, Simiyu said, “Wekesa has a lot of potential, we indeed view him as the next Andrew Amonde. Omondi was in line for his debut in Vancouver until a concussion ruled him out.”

Omondi has been included in the team after recovering from an injury that sidelined him for the better of the year.

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After impressing in the Safari Sevens tournament, Edmund Anya has been included in the traveling squad.

“Anya played well during the pre-season Safari 7s, and apart from his pace and ball carrying ability, brings another dimension in the air. I believe he will be a good addition,” said Simiyu.

Bush Mwale returns after missing the Olympics and the 2021 World 7s Series. Johnstone Olindi has also been recalled in the team.

Levy Amunga, Alvin Marube and Timothy Mmasi have been retained after making their debut in the 2021 World 7s Series.

Regulars Herman Humwa, Daniel Taabu, Billy Odhiambo, Alvin Otieno and Jeff Olouch are in the squad that will be captained by Nelson Oyoo.

“We are looking at how to improve on our team execution in the quest to attain our targets,” added Simiyu.

The 2021 World Sevens Bronze medallists are in Group B alongside Olympic bronze medallists Argentina, Spain, and USA.

Shujaa finished third in the 2021 World Rugby Sevens Series behind winners South Africa and second-ranked Great Britain.