Kenya’s national rugby sevens team, commonly known as Shujaa, has successfully secured a spot in the prestigious 2024 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series, culminating in the much-anticipated final event in Madrid. This qualification marks a significant milestone for the team as they aim to regain their position in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series for the 2025 season.
Aiming for Promotion
The stakes are high as the top teams from the Challenger Series will face the bottom-ranked teams from the 2024 HSBC SVNS in Madrid. This final playoff will determine which teams earn a spot in the 2025 World Series. Kenya’s performance in these events will be crucial, as securing a top-four finish in the Challenger Series could pave their way back to the elite level of international sevens rugby.
Team Preparations
Former Shujaa captain and current coach, Andrew Amonde, has been instrumental in preparing the team for this challenge. The squad has been focused on correcting past mistakes that led to their relegation from the World Series, with an emphasis on integrating young talent into the team. This strategic move aims to build a robust and dynamic team capable of competing at the highest levels.
Historical Context
The World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger Series was introduced in 2020 to foster the development of rugby sevens globally and provide a clear route for teams to ascend to the top-tier HSBC SVNS. The competition replicates the Olympic Games format, featuring 12 teams drawn into pools, with knockout stages determining the final placements.
Future Prospects
With the Challenger Series and the Grand Final in Madrid on the horizon, Shujaa’s journey is not just about redemption but also about showcasing Kenya’s rugby prowess on a global stage. Success in this series could see them return to the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, re-establishing Kenya as a formidable force in international rugby sevens.
