Kenya’s Shujaa captain, Anthony Omondi, has expressed his team’s confidence as they prepare for the final leg of the World Rugby Challenger Series in Munich, Germany, kicking off on Saturday.
Kenya Sevens, placed in Group C alongside Chile, Japan, and Portugal, aim to approach each match with precision and determination, focusing on securing a top-four finish to qualify for the promotion playoff in Madrid later this month.
A top-four finish in Munich is crucial for Kenya, as it would position them for the Challenger Series playoff, determining the teams that will join the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series in 2025.
Currently, Kenya stands in second place in the Challenger standings, tied with Uruguay at 36 points following a victory in Dubai and a strong performance in Montevideo.
Chile follows closely with 32 points, while Germany and Hong Kong China are also in contention, making the final leg a highly competitive affair.
“The preparation went well despite the hectic journey to Munich,” said Omondi. “As a team, we are going to approach each game as a final. This is it, and we have to win it to get to the next phase as we continue with our goal of returning to the World Rugby Sevens Series.”
In the women’s category, the Kenya Lionesses are also vying for a strong finish. Currently in fifth place with 24 points, they need a podium finish to stand a chance of making it to the playoffs.
China leads the women’s standings with a perfect 40 points, followed by Argentina, Belgium, and Uganda. Kenya’s hopes are bolstered by the inclusion of Freshia Oduor and Edith Nairaka, who will make their Challenger debuts in Poland.
They replace Grace Okulu and Janet Okello, who were not released by their club, MIE Pearls. The Lionesses, captained by Sheila Chajira, will face Belgium, Mexico, and Poland in Group C.
Both the men’s and women’s teams are focused and ready to give their best in the final leg of the series, with the ultimate goal of reclaiming their spot in the World Rugby Sevens Series.
