Victor Odhiambo Mola joins the Shujaa team in training at Kasarani Stadium in preparation for the concluding rounds of the HSBC SVNS World Championship.
Promising National Sevens Circuit winger Victor Odhiambo Mola has earned his initial selection to the Kenyan national rugby sevens squad.
The announcement precedes the final stages of the HSBC SVNS World Championship set for Valladolid (29–31 May) and Bordeaux (5–7 June).
The versatile winger leads a revamped 13-player roster as Shujaa aim to surpass their seventh-place result in Hong Kong and conclude the tournament strongly.
Head coach Kevin Wambua highlighted Mola as a talent who has been on the verge of selection, with the player finally earning his chance after being sidelined by injury in previous rounds.
“Injuries prevented Mola from participating in SVNS 2, but we’re pleased to have him now. He’s nimble, fast, and can bring that special quality to the team. We want him to seize this opportunity and make the most of his selection,” Wambua stated.
The other modification to the Hong Kong squad sees Chrisant Onjwang returning from injury, taking the place of Gabriel Ayimba, who cannot participate due to academic obligations.
Shujaa also welcomed back Patrick Odongo, who has recovered sufficiently after missing the latter part of the Hong Kong tournament due to injury.
Wambua expressed assurance in the team’s preparedness after an intensive 10-day training session at Kasarani.
“We conducted an excellent 10-day camp concentrating on offense, defense, speed, and situational awareness. We examined crucial moments, particularly our quarterfinal defeat to South Africa in Hong Kong, and enhanced our decision-making. The players now have improved clarity about the opponents we’ll encounter.”
Kenya confronts a significant challenge in Pool A, where they face South Africa, Australia, and Great Britain in what is considered the competition’s most challenging group at Estadio José Zorrilla.
Despite the difficult draw, co-captain George Ooro remained optimistic.
“We’ll step up and give our all for the national emblem.”
His fellow co-captain Samuel Asati noted that the team has adapted well since Hong Kong and developed greater cohesion heading into these crucial matches.
Supporting the team, SportPesa Head of Marketing Senorine Wasike expressed confidence that the squad possesses the caliber to regain top-tier status.
Additionally, Harriet Okach reminded the players of their objective: achieving a top-eight ranking among the 12 World Championship teams and ensuring qualification for HSBC SVNS 1 in 2027.
Shujaa will travel to Spain on the evening of May 24.
Shujaa Squad: George Ooro, Samuel Asati, Kevin Wekesa, Dennis Abukuse, John Okoth, Vincent Onyala, Nygel Amaitsa, Patrick Odongo, Festus Safari, Chrisant Onjwang, David Nyangige, Brian Tanga and Victor Odhiambo Mola.