Wambua banks on returning Tanga as Shujaa fly out for Hong Kong Sevens on Sunday

p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 8.0px Azbuka} span.s1 {font-kerning: none}

Brian Tanga is the notable inclusion in the Kenya national rugby sevens team squad for the Hong Kong Sevens this coming weekend.

The Kabras RFC playmaker has been plagued by injuries for much of last year but has now been declared fit, with head coach Kevin Wambua terming his return a tactical adjustment.

Tanga replaces Chrisant Ojwang, who has been ruled out with a hamstring injury.

The diminutive playmaker made his Shujaa bow at the 2016 Hong Kong Sevens and is expected to add much-needed experience as the team pushes to return to the top stage.

Wambua emphasised Tanga’s value, saying: “He brings a lot of experience and is the kind of player you want in tight games. His understanding of the game is top-notch and we expect him to have a big impact.”

The rest of the squad remains intact, with George Ooro, Vincent Onyala, John Okoth and Kevin Wekesa included.

Wambua noted the short turnaround after the Sao Paulo leg but expressed confidence in the team’s readiness.

“We have had a short training camp. We pushed the boys but also managed their workloads to ensure we are in good shape in Hong Kong,” he said.

Shujaa face a stern Pool C test against Australia, New Zealand and the USA, with the coach highlighting the importance of the opening match.

“The opening match is key. We have analysed Australia—we played them last season and they have not changed much. We know their strengths and believe there are areas we can exploit,” he noted.

Wambua stressed the need to execute core basics.

“Kick-off reception, defence, set-piece and defensive alignment are non-negotiable. We must be solid and apply pressure with our line speed.”

The team also received a boost from SportPesa, which awarded a Sh 3.15 million bonus following strong performances across Nairobi, Montevideo and Sao Paulo, where Kenya finished second overall to qualify for the World Championship.

SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri expressed confidence about the team’s chances saying: “We are proud to sponsor Shujaa. This team represents national pride and we know you belong in HSBC SVNS 1. When you put on that jersey, you carry the hopes of millions of Kenyans and you should feel fully supported by us and the entire country."