The Kenyan rugby sevens team arrived in Perth, Australia, last Sunday ready to take on the top teams of the 2024/25 HSBC SVNS Series.

They are in Pool C where they face series leaders Fiji, New Zealand and Uruguay.

With one week to acclimatise, Kenyan coach Kevin Wambua is confident that his squad is well-prepared for the challenges ahead, aiming to break through the group stages and secure a top eight finish.

The Perth Sevens gets underway on Friday.

Wambua’s squad has a week to acclimatise before the competition kicks off on Friday running through to Sunday.

Before the team’s departure in Nairobi, Wambua briefed the media on Wednesday, assuring that preparations to counter jet lag and adjust to the time difference were in place.

“With the help of our physio, we’ve made the necessary preparations to manage jet lag,” Wambua told The Eastleigh Voice.

Kenya opened their campaign against New Zealand at 3pm followed by a match against Fiji at 7.59pm.

Currently ranked ninth in the overall standings, Kenya secured three points in Dubai and eight points in Cape Town. The team is focused on progressing beyond the group stages for the first time this season. The return of Vincent Onyala has provided a boost, with his experience pivotal to Wambua’s target of finishing in the top eight—securing a spot at the season finale in Los Angeles this May.

“We are aiming for a top eight finish. Anything beyond that will be a bonus,” Wambua said.

Kenya’s strong fan base in Perth is expected to provide significant support, with event organisers dedicating a stand for Kenyan fans for the first time.

Kenya squad: George Ooro (captain), Samuel Asati (assistant captain), Vincent Onyala, Brian Tanga, George Ooro, Antony Omondi, Kevin Wekesa, William Mwanji, Dennis Abukuse, Nygel Amaitsa, Patrick Odongo, Festus Shiasi, Benson Salem, and Floyd Wabwire.

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