Promising star in as Wambua names strong Shujaa squad for HSBC SVNS 2
Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 09.02.26. | 13:44
He stood out during the 2025 Safari 7s, playing a key role as the Shujaa's second-string squad, Morans, secured a third-place finish, with his powerful ball-carrying ability catching the selectors’ attention
KCB Rugby forward David Nyangige is in line to make his long-awaited debut for the Kenya rugby sevens team after being named in the squad for the opening leg of the HSBC SVNS Division 2, set for Saturday, 14 to Sunday, 15 February at Nyayo Stadium.
The former Impala RFC player has forced his way into the national team, popularly known as Shujaa, following a string of impressive performances on the domestic and invitational circuit.
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Nyangige stood out during the 2025 Safari 7s, playing a key role as the Shujaa's second-string squad, Morans, secured a third-place finish, with his powerful ball-carrying ability catching the selectors’ attention.
He had earlier strengthened his case at the Embu 7s while representing Impala, crossing the try line eight times to underline his attacking threat.
Head coach Kevin Wambua has largely maintained continuity in his selection, naming Nyangige as the only debutant as Kenya gears up for a push for promotion to Division 1 following World Rugby’s restructuring set to take effect from the 2026 season.
George ‘Japolo’ Ooro and Samuel Asati retain their roles as co-captains and will lead the side in what will be their first opportunity to play in front of home fans in an international tournament under the new format.
The squad also features experienced campaigners, including Vincent Onyala, while Kevin Wekesa returns fresh from being honoured with the International Olympic Committee’s Climate Action Award in 2025.
Speedster Patrick Odongo, Shujaa’s top try scorer in the 2025 season, is expected to play a key role in Kenya’s attacking ambitions.
Also named in the squad are: John Okoth, Dennis Abukuse, Festus Shiasi, Nygel Amaitsa and Chrisant Ojwang’.
Following the Nairobi opener, the SVNS Division 2 circuit will move to Montevideo, Uruguay (March 21–22) before concluding in São Paulo (March 28–29).
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The top four teams from the six-team competition will progress to the SVNS World Championship, where they will battle the leading eight sides from Division 1 in Hong Kong, Valladolid and Bordeaux for promotion spots.
Under the new structure, the SVNS Division 2 features six teams per gender competing across three events.
The four best-performing teams advance to the World Championship stage, with the top eight overall sides earning Division 1 status for the 2027 season.
Kenya’s men’s side will face competition from the USA, Uruguay, Germany, Belgium and Canada, while the Lionesses will contest the women’s division alongside Brazil, China, Spain, South Africa and Argentina.