Shujaa unveil 13-man squad for HSBC VSNS 2 legs in Valladolid and Bordeux
By Joel Masibo, May 23, 2026The Kenya Rugby Union has unveiled a formidable 13-player Kenya Shujaa squad for the upcoming HSBC SVNS 2 tournaments in Valladolid, Spain, and Bordeaux, France, as the national side continues its quest to regain a place in the World Rugby Sevens Series.
Head coach Kevin Wambua has largely maintained faith in the squad that featured at the Hong Kong Sevens, making just two adjustments to the travelling team. The coaching staff’s decision reflects their belief in the consistency and quality displayed by the core group throughout the campaign.
Squad outlook
Experienced duo George Ooro and Samuel Asati will jointly lead the team during the European assignments.
The squad also includes the likes of Kevin Wekesa, Dennis Abukuse, John Okoth, and Vincent Onyala, all of whom are expected to play important roles in Kenya’s promotion chase. Consistent performers Nygel Amaitsa, Patrick Odongo, and Festus Shafari have also retained their places in the squad.
Young talent David Nyangige continues to earn trust from the technical bench and will travel together with experienced campaigner Brian Tanga, offering the team a blend of youth and experience.
Meanwhile, Chrisant Ojwang returns to the lineup after missing the Hong Kong tournament, while Victor Odhiambo, popularly referred to as “Mola,” is set for his eagerly anticipated debut with the national sevens side during his first tour with Shujaa.
During the squad unveiling, Wambua expressed optimism ahead of the important fixtures, saying: “The preparations have been good and the boys are ready. We are confident heading into these tournaments and now it is all about showing up, competing well, and representing the country with pride.”
Shujaa have impressed in the HSBC SVNS 2 competition so far and remain determined to secure promotion back to the top-tier global sevens circuit.
Schedule
Kenya will kick off their Valladolid campaign against Australia on Friday, May 29, 2026 at 1:12 pm EAT before facing South Africa later that evening at 6:08 pm EAT. Their final pool encounter is scheduled for Saturday, May 30, 2026 against Great Britain at 2:02 pm EAT.
With confidence growing and promotion ambitions still alive, Shujaa will be hoping to continue their strong form during the European leg as they push for a return to the world rugby sevens elite.