CS Ababu Namwamba rallies behind Shujaa ahead of crucial HSBC 7s playoffs

Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ababu Namwamba has backed Kenya 7s national team; Shujaa to garner good results in the HSBC 7s playoffs slated for May 31 to June 2 in Madrid, Spain.

Shujaa have had an impressive run in the Challenger Series and are hoping to finish in style and earn a much-needed promotion to the World Rugby 7s Series.

They have been placed in Pool B together with Chile, Samoa, and hosts Spain.

The CS extended his heartfelt wishes and support to the team, urging them to play with the same courage, determination, and spirit that brought them this far.

“Your dedication, hard work, and passion for the sport have already made us incredibly proud, and we believe in your ability to achieve great success in this crucial playoff.

You have consistently demonstrated exceptional talent and teamwork. As you take to the field, remember that you carry with you the hopes and dreams of every Kenyan.

Play with the same courage, determination, and unity that have brought you this far.

We are confident that your skill and resilience will shine through, and we look forward to celebrating your victories. Know that the entire country is behind you, cheering you on every step of the way. Go forth and make Kenya proud!” the CS offered.

One change as Shujaa squad for HSBC 7s playoffs is named

Meanwhile, the stage is set and the warriors are ready. Shujaa will head to the pitch with a single-minded purpose burning bright; to reclaim their rightful place on the World Rugby Sevens Series circuit.

The journey to this point has not been a walk in the park. They dominated the Challenger Series with a gold medal in Dubai, a hard-fought bronze in Montevideo, and battling fifth in Germany.

Now, the main challenge awaits. Chile, Samoa, and Spain stand before them. Only the top four teams from this playoff will earn a slot in the HSBC grand stage.

This is their moment. The Kevin Wambua-coached side will be looking to use their experience, flair, and unwavering teamwork to dismantle their defenses and plant the Kenyan flag firmly on the pitch.

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Why shirts will be taped during the matches

This time, Shujaa will conceal sponsors during the matches.

The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) explained that Spanish laws prohibit shirt sponsorships by betting firms. As a result, the Kenya 7s jerseys will have their sponsor’s name taped out during the HSBC Sevens Series in Madrid to comply with these regulations.

“Spanish laws prohibit shirt sponsorships by betting firms. Consequently, our jerseys will have our shirt sponsor’s name taped out during the HSBC Sevens in Madrid in respect of these laws,” the Union announced.

Shujaa will kick start their campaign with a match against Samoa on Friday at 6:25pm before playing hosts Spain at 10:18pm.

They will play their final pool match against Chile on Saturday at 8:18pm.

Shujaa schedule in Madrid

Friday, 31 May

Kenya vs Samoa 6:25pm

Kenya vs Spain 10:18pm

Saturday 1 June

Kenya vs Chile 8:18pm