NAIROBI, Kenya, June 24- Veteran Humphrey Kayange is among the five survivors from the 2009 Rugby World Cup Sevens that made the final 12 for the Russia edition of the global showpiece that that kicks-off in Moscow on Friday.
Andrew Amonde captains the squad which has 10 survivors from the last two legs of the HSBC World Series in Glasgow and London seeking to match and improve their outing in Dubai four years ago where Kenya reached the semis.
Kayange, Lavin Asego, Collins Injera, Biko Adema and Horace Otieno are the five survivors from the Dubai campaign, when they finished fourth after losing to Argentina in the semi finals.
The squad also includes 2012/2013 IRB Sevens World Player of the Year nominee William Ambaka and Oscar Ouma, just two of Kenya’s stand out players during the just concluded season.
Kenya Rugby Union Chairman Mwangi Muthee, speaking in Nairobi while unveiling the side selected by Head Coach Mike Friday said, “Our men are raring to go. They are well prepared for the challenge that awaits them. We all know what they are capable of, not least, being able to go all the way and lift the Rugby World Cup Sevens trophy.”
“I urge the team to play with all their might and pride, be exemplary ambassadors of our country as they are watched by millions across the globe and make every Kenyan parent want his or her child to be associated with our game.
“The team will play against remarkably well paid professional players in the rest of the world and as they stand toe-to-toe with these professionals, you will realize how talented but down-to-earth our Kenyan boys are.”
The team is currently in London attending a training camp and will proceed to Moscow on Tuesday. They are in Pool C alongside Samoa, Philippines and Zimbabwe
Kenya squad: Andrew Amonde (captain), Collins Injera (vice captain), Humphrey Kayange, Lavin Asego, Biko Adema, Horace Otieno, Patrice Agunda, William Ambaka, Felix Ayange, Michael Wanjala, Eden Agero and Oscar Ouma
Management: Mike Friday (Head Coach), Felix Ochieng (Assistant Coach), Steven Sewe (Strength and Conditioning Coach), George Odhiambo (Physiotherapist)