Lionesses aim for the stars in Dubai at opening HSBC Sevens Challenger leg

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RUGBY Lionesses aim for the stars in Dubai at opening HSBC Sevens Challenger leg

Mark Kinyanjui 16:07 - 08.01.2024

Just like Shujaa, the Lionesses will be seeking qualification to the World Series by doing as well as they can in the Challenger Series which commences this weekend in Dubai.

The women’s national rugby sevens side Kenya Lionesses will be itching to get off to a flyer at the opening leg of the 2024 HSBC Challenger Sevens Series in Dubai this weekend.

Head coach Dennis Mwanja on Sunday named the traveling squad to Dubai, where they will be seeking to maximize on all their games at the weekend.

Mwanja, a former Shujaa skipper touched on the team’s preparations, expectations and selection criteria.

“Our transition from fifteens to sevens has been a rewarding journey, and the team has made significant strides in improvement," Mwanja said.

“As we gear up for Dubai, the combination of youthful energy and seasoned experience within our squad is promising, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and anticipation for the upcoming challenge next weekend.”

Like the men's side, Lionesses will take the game one at a time, but having conducted a thorough analysis of their opponents.

“Taking a measured approach, we are approaching the tournament one game at a time. A thorough analysis of our opponents reveals their worth, but our team is grounded in self-belief and quietly confident in our capabilities. 

“Our focus on staying fresh, being fully prepared, and maintaining a hunger for victory will be the key factors that carry us through the competition.”

Mwanja has further explained how he assembled his squad for the monumental tournament.

“In assembling our squad, we considered a blend of experience, current form, and maturity on the field. 

“Striking a delicate balance between youthful vigor, seasoned expertise, and leadership qualities was paramount. 

“It is upon this combination that we place our trust to deliver the desired results in the upcoming event.”

Captain Grace Okulu has revealed that the side has gathered the necessary experience over the years that will come in handy. 

 “We have come a long way as a team and we know what to expect at the series,” Okulu said as quoted on Citizen Digital.

“We want to finish on top of our table which will enable us to get to the knockout phase of the series aiming to win everything.” she asserted.

The Lionesses, participating in Pool B of the women’s competition, will kick off their campaign with a match against China at 11:36 EAT on Friday, January 12.

Subsequently, they will go head-to-head with Czechia at 15:58 EAT on the same day. The Lionesses will wrap up their pool fixtures against Mexico at 10:59 EAT on Saturday, January 13.

Lionesses squad to Dubai

Grace Okulu (Captain), Stella Wafula, Maureen Muritu, Phoebe Akinyi, Naomi Amuguni, Christabel Lindo, Sheila Chajira, Judy Okumu, Sinaida Nyachio, Sharon Auma, Diana Awino, Janet Okello, Diana Kemunto MANAGEMENT: Dennis Mwanja (Head Coach), Paul Murunga (Assistant Coach), Jeff Onyango (Assistant Coach), Levis Kituyi (Physio), Camyline Oyuayo (Team Manager)

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