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The Nairobian

Kenya Sevens set for Hong Kong Sevens challenge after disappointing Vancouver outing

Rugby

By Washington Onyango | Feb 24, 2025

Kenya Sevens will have a chance to redeem themselves when they face familiar foes Spain and France in the 2025 Hong Kong Sevens, set to take place from March 28-30 at the Kai Tak Stadium.

Shujaa, who endured a tough outing at the Vancouver Sevens, have been placed in Pool C alongside Spain, Great Britain, and France. Spain have been in fine form this season, making them formidable opponents, while France and Great Britain will also be looking to advance to the knockout rounds.

The pools for the Hong Kong leg have been unveiled, with Pool A featuring Vancouver Sevens champions Argentina, who will battle against Fiji, the USA, and Ireland. Pool B comprises rugby giants South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia, with Uruguay also eager to make an impression.

Kenya 7s finished last in Vancouver after a narrow 19-14 loss to Ireland in the 11th-place playoff. It was their lowest finish since returning to the World Sevens Series under head coach Kevin Wambua. The team had struggled throughout the tournament, suffering four consecutive losses, including a crucial defeat to Uruguay that pushed them into the 11th-place playoff.

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Shujaa's campaign in Vancouver was plagued by inconsistency, with a 24-0 opening loss to Argentina followed by a 33-7 defeat to France. They also fell 28-10 to Great Britain, failing to register a single win in four matches.

With only 15 points, Kenya currently sits ninth in the overall standings, trailing the crucial eighth position by 17 points. The top eight teams after six rounds will compete in the ‘winner takes all’ World Championship in Singapore, where the ultimate champions will be crowned. Teams ranked ninth to 12th will head to Los Angeles for a promotion and relegation playoff against the top four teams from the HSBC Sevens Challenger Series.

Shujaa will be aiming for a stronger performance in Hong Kong as they seek to climb out of the relegation zone and stay in contention for a place in the elite competition. The upcoming tournament presents a crucial test for Wambua’s squad, who must bounce back to keep their hopes alive.