Dj Vnyash
The qualification of the national rugby 7s team for the HSBC World Series is expected to enhance competition within the National Sevens Circuit (NSC) and improve the overall quality of the annual tournament.
Kabras Sugar RFC coach Felix Ayange believes that the opportunity to play for Shujaa in this prestigious event will motivate many players to perform at their best.
“The competition has significantly improved. Recent upsets, like Nondies defeating KCB and Monks beating Nondies, show that any team can win. With Kenya back in the World Series, every player is now vying for selection,” Ayange commented.
He added, “This drive to be part of the national team and participate in the World Rugby Series has intensified competition.”
The opening leg of this year’s NSC, the Christie 7s, took place at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi, where the 2017 champions defeated hosts Kenya Harlequin 17-12 to claim the title.
As the tournament progresses, Ayange anticipates tougher competition as teams find their rhythm.
“As the tournament advances, teams become fitter and analyze their opponents more effectively. Minor adjustments will improve both defense and attack,” he noted.
Regarding his team’s performance over the weekend, Ayange acknowledged that they didn’t play their best but still put in a commendable effort.
“We took it one game at a time. While we made some mistakes, I’m pleased with how the boys conducted themselves,” said the former Kabras Sugar player.
He added, “Winning here sets a positive precedent for the next leg in Kakamega. We aim to build on this performance, even if it wasn’t as sharp as we would have liked, as we approach our home tournament next weekend.”
The sugar millers will host 15 other teams at the Kakamega Showground this Saturday and Sunday for the inaugural Kakamega 7s.
In Pool A, they will compete against Kisumu’s Western Bulls, Masinde Muliro University, and Kenyatta University Blak Blad.
One highlight for Ayange as they gear up for the competition is Eric Cantona, who was named the most valuable player (MVP) at the Christie 7s.
The coach expressed pride in Cantona’s significant improvement since joining the team last season.
“He has truly stepped up this season. He’s become a key player, learning from experienced teammates. We want to help him grow, and if the national team comes calling, we will be thrilled to see him shine,” Ayange said.
