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The two players have been out with long-term injuries and could boost Kenya’s survival chances if they manage to get involved in the penultimate leg
Kenya Sevens fans have received positive news following the return to training of key playmaker Vincent Onyala an winger Derrick Ashihundu after long-term injuries.
The two have been going through their paces as they bid to keep fit and possibly take part in Shujaa’s final two legs of the World Rugby Sevens Series in Toulouse and London where they are in danger of relegation.
Onyala was ruled out for six months following a knee injury sustained during the opening leg in Hong Kong last November and his earliest possible return was said to be June during the final leg in London while Ashihundu also went out at the same time.
However, Shujaa fans will be hoping to see the duo earlier than predicted for the penultimate round in Toulouse slated for May 12-14 given the circumstances they find themselves in.
Kenya are 13th on the standings with 37 points, 12 behind Uruguay who occupy 11th place, the final promotion slot for next season, while Spain are 12th on 48 points.
Heading into the 10th leg in Toulouse, Kenya will need to collect a minimum of 15 points which would take their tally to 52 points while they will hope that Uruguay finishes down in 14th place and Spain manage just three points, to leave both on 51.
That will see Kenya finish the leg in 11th position and dislodge Uruguay, therefore, retaining their core status that has stood since 2004.
However, 15 points mean reaching the Cup semi-final and on current form, it is hard to see that happening since Shujaa have so far won just two group games this season, from nine legs.
That has largely been down to lacking leadership and experience, added to the fact that they have missed their most intelligent player in Onyala, who can change a game with his playmaking skills.
Onyala was one of the outstanding players for Shujaa before his injury with his link-up play, defence and playmaking proving crucial and his availability could be a big boost in Toulouse where Kenya will need an inspired performance.
If they do not make the cut, Kenya will be left to fight it out in the four-team playoff in London that involve the sides that finish in 12, 13 and 14th position plus the Challenger Series 2023 winners, a round robin tournament, where only one slot it at stake to join next season’s World Series.
Kenya are encouraged by what appears to be a favourable pool in Toulouse where they have series leaders New Zealand as well as Uruguay and 14th-placed Canada.
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