Mike Friday: Why Kenya still misses out on Rugby 15s World Cup qualification

Mike Friday.IMAGE: Rugby Explorer

Mike Friday: Why Kenya still misses out on Rugby 15s World Cup qualification

Stephen Awino 12:30 - 28.03.2025

Former Shujaa coach Mike Friday is a man who knows the ins and outs of Kenyan Rugby, having been at the helm for the Shujaa.

Breaking through on the international rugby scene is one of the toughest challenges in team sports.

With powerhouse nations dominating the game, smaller rugby-playing countries must overcome significant obstacles to make their mark.

Kenya's Shujaa has long been a force in the Sevens circuit, electrifying global tournaments with their blistering pace, raw power, and fearless style of play.

However, when it comes to the 15s game, Kenya has yet to secure a spot in the Rugby World Cup.

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So what is holding them back? Former Kenya Sevens coach Mike Friday has shed light on the challenges and potential of Kenyan rugby, highlighting why their success in Sevens has yet to translate into a World Cup debut in 15s.

Kenya first made a global impact in 2009 when they reached the Rugby World Cup Sevens semifinals, defeating heavyweights like Fiji enroute to their historic milestone.

Their defining moment came in 2016 when they won their first-ever World Rugby Sevens Series tournament. Since then, they have consistently qualified for the Olympics, cementing their reputation as a Sevens powerhouse.

“People were worried about playing Kenya because of their physical prowess. Aesthetically, they’re impressive men—powerful, fast, and in sync with each other. When they start to understand how they operate together, they become a very dangerous force," stated former Shujaa coach Mike Friday via World Rugby.

Sevens rugby thrives on skill, speed, and split-second decision-making—qualities that Kenya has mastered. But what happens when those attributes are applied to the 15s game?

Kenya’s growing presence in Test rugby isn’t just about size and power. Their elite handling, relentless fitness, and tactical awareness—refined in Sevens—have contributed to their 15s performance.

Key players such as Humphrey Kayange, Collins Injera and Andrew Amonde have successfully transitioned between the two formats.

Other nations, such as Fiji, Argentina, and South Africa, have used 7s as a stepping stone to Test rugby success.

Despite Kenya’s immense potential, a lack of financial investment has been a major stumbling block to their Rugby World Cup qualification.

“It’s tough for the boys when they travel. They don’t get extra days to recover from jet lag because of the funding. The adjustments they have to make are much harder compared to teams from more established rugby nations," explained Friday

His sentiments was shared by former Shujaa captain Andrew Amonde who is now the strength and conditioning coach.

“The big thing is investment. We don’t have enough funding to sustain most players. Many struggle to balance family, careers, and playing rugby. Getting that balance is something we’ve really struggled with," said Amonde.

Following Kenya’s relegation from the Sevens World Series in 2023, the financial strain deepened

The funding gap affects Kenya’s ability to compete at the highest level as Friday further emphasized the challenges players face when competing internationally.

Despite these challenges, Kenya has been a top competitor in the Rugby Africa Cup, consistently challenging powerhouses like South Africa and Zimbabwe for World Cup qualification.

In 2022, Kenya came within one step of making history, reaching the final stage of Rugby World Cup qualifying.

Their fast-paced, physical style—deeply influenced by their Sevens background—has made them a dangerous and unpredictable opponent in Test rugby.

With continued investment and development, Kenya has the potential to rise to prominence in Fifteens.