Injuries of key players threatens Shujaa’s performance ahead of the Hong Kong sevens

The 42 Edition of 2017 Hong Kong Sevens is set to go down as from 7-9 of April making it the seventh tournament of 2016-2017 World Rugby Sevens series.

Kenya’s Shujaa is preparing to stage a magnificent show at the sevens but a number of setbacks seems to be haunting the team.

Injera picked up knock in the Mwamba’s 25-18 defeat to KCB in the Kenya Cup over the weekend and didn’t travel with the team to Mombasa, where they have been camping in a four-day training the Mombasa Sports Club.

On the other hand Ayodi had travelled to Las Vegas and Vancouver Sevens with a knee injury and he is in doubt if he will be fit for the next week action.

Odhiambo injured his ankle in Las Vegas and didn’t play in Vancouver hence has not fully recovered.

As part of making the squad strong again head Coach Innocent Simiyu might be forced to look for suitable replacements of the three injured players.

Those who have an upper hand of landing on the final list to Hong Kong sevens are Oscar Ouma of Nakuru, Derrick Mayar of Impala and Dennis Ombachi of Top fry Nakuru alongside Darwin Mukidza of KCB.

Another setback on Simiyu’s neck is the Kenya Cup clubs who are asking their players to turn down the offer of playing for the Shujaa’s and help them in their play-offs.

Kabras sugar who will be battling out with Impala in the Kenya Cup play-off have asked Dan Sikuta and Brian Tanga to overlook the call and help their team retain the league.

According to Shujaa’s Team Manager Eric Ogweno the team’s trip to Mombasa is meant to ensure players adjust to both hot and humid conditions expected in both Hong Kong and Singapore.

“Training has gone well. We just wanted to take the boys out of their comfort zone and see how things will be different,” added Ogweno.

Kenya open their campaign against Canada in Hong Kong followed by tough tie against series leaders South Africa before taking on France in final pool game.