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Shujaa stand-in Co-captain Samuel Asati has weighed in on the tough challenge that awaits them at the Dubai Sevens this weekend as they prepare for World Series return.
Kenya Sevens’ stand-in co-captain Samuel Asati has shared his insights on the challenges awaiting the team in Pool A of the upcoming Dubai Sevens this weekend.
This marks Kenya’s return to the top tier of world sevens rugby following their promotion. Asati, who debuted for the national team during the Olympic qualifiers in Harare a year ago, has rapidly become a key figure in the squad.
Now, stepping in as co-captain alongside George ‘Japolo’ Ooro in the absence of Vincent Onyala and Tony Omondi, Asati is tasked with steering the team through a tough pool featuring South Africa, Australia, and Olympic champions France.
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09:00 - 24.11.2024
Shujaa's George Ooro makes rallying call as stand-in co-captain ahead of HSBC SVNS World Series openers
George Ooro has been named stand-in co-captain alongside Samuel Asati for Kenya's first two legs of the 2024/2025 HSBC SVNS in the absence of Tony Omondi and Vincent Onyala.
Speaking at a press conference, Asati acknowledged the difficulty of the pool while expressing confidence in the team’s preparation.
“We played against Australia at the Olympics, and it was very close. For South Africa, we had them during the Olympic qualifiers, and again we will be facing them. It is not going to be easy,” he said.
Highlighting their strategy against France, he added, “We have focused on them more and analysed them, so we are ready to take them.”
Reflecting on his leadership role, Asati admitted to feeling the weight of the responsibility but credited the camaraderie and shared experiences with his teammates for making the transition smoother.
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15:09 - 22.11.2024
Shujaa coach Kevin Wambua clears the air over the futures of experienced co-captains Tony Omondi, Vincent Onyala
Shujaa head coach Kevin Wambua has provided a positive update over the futures of striking co-captains Tony Omondi & Vincent Onyala.
"Leading the boys is a challenge, but it’s one I have to fill in. We started together, and the process is quite easy since we already know what it is like to be there," he remarked.
Coach Kevin ‘Bling’ Wambua emphasised the team’s readiness for the challenge. “We have a balanced squad blending youth and experience. Asati and Ooro’s leadership will be pivotal as we aim for a strong start in Dubai,” he stated.
Following the Dubai leg, Shujaa will immediately head to Cape Town for the second round of the series.
The team departs Nairobi on Monday, November 25, with high hopes of reclaiming their position among the world’s rugby sevens elite.
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09:12 - 05.07.2024
From rejection for being 'too small' to becoming an Olympian - The inspirational story of Kenya Sevens' George Ooro
How George 'Japolo' Ooro went from being rejected for being 'too small' to now being a key part of Shujaa in their quest to achieve Olympic glory.
Shujaa fans will be eager to see how the team performs under the dual leadership of Asati and Ooro, especially with key players and debutants poised to make their mark on the international stage.
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