Kenya national rugby sevens team have handed exciting National Sevens Circuit winger Victor Odhiambo Mola his maiden call-up ahead of the final two legs of the HSBC SVNS World Championship set for Valladolid, Spain from May 29–31 and Bordeaux, France from June 5–7.
Mola headlines the only major change to the 13-man squad named by head coach Kevin Wambua as Shujaa seek to improve on their impressive seventh-place finish in Hong Kong.
The speedy winger replaces injured players after missing the second round of the SVNS campaign through injury, with Wambua expressing confidence in the youngster’s ability to add a new dimension to the side.
“Injury kept Mola out of SVNS 2, but we are happy to have him now. He is agile, quick, and can give the team the X factor. We ask him to be patient and make the best out of his inclusion,” said Wambua.
The squad also welcomes back Chrissant Ojwang from injury, replacing Gabriel Ayimba, who is unavailable due to school commitments. Meanwhile, Patrick Odongo has recovered in time to travel after picking up an injury during the latter stages of the Hong Kong tournament.
Shujaa head into the decisive stretch of the season buoyed by strong recent performances and an intensive 10-day training camp at Kasarani. According to Wambua, the team has focused heavily on attack, defence, speed, and situational awareness in preparation for the tough challenge ahead.
“We’ve analysed our performances, especially moments like the South Africa quarterfinal loss in Hong Kong, and worked on improving our decision-making in key moments. The boys now have better clarity and understanding of the opponents we’ll face and we believe we are better prepared,” he added.
Kenya has been drawn in a challenging Pool A alongside South Africa national rugby sevens team, Australia national rugby sevens team and Great Britain national rugby sevens team in what many have described as the tournament’s “group of death” at the iconic Estadio José Zorrilla.
Despite the daunting draw, co-captain George Ooro remained optimistic about the team’s chances.
“We’re going to man up and give everything for the badge,” said Ooro.
Fellow co-captain Samuel Asati said the squad had settled well following the Hong Kong leg and was fully focused on finishing the campaign strongly.
“We’ve had enough transition time from Hong Kong into these final two legs. The team is growing together well and everyone understands what is required,” said Asati.
Team sponsors SportPesa also backed the side to finish the season on a high, with Head of Marketing Senorine Wasike expressing confidence in the squad’s quality and resilience.
Meanwhile, Harriet Okach challenged the players to secure a top-eight finish and cement Kenya’s place among the world’s elite teams ahead of the 2027 HSBC SVNS season.
The team is scheduled to depart for Spain on Sunday evening.
Shujaa Squad: George Ooro, Samuel Asati, Kevin Wekesa, Dennis Abukuse, John Okoth, Vincent Onyala, Nygel Amaitsa, Patrick Odongo, Festus Safari, Chrissant Ojwang, David Nyangige, Brian Tanga and Victor Odhiambo Mola.
