Captain Vincent Onyala is excited about the new-look and efficient Shujaa rugby team under the leadership of head coach Kevin ‘Bling’ Wambua. Since Wambua took over, Shujaa has won all three tournaments they have participated in. Their latest victory came against Chile, where they clinched the main cup final in the Dubai leg of the 2024 Challenger Series.

This victory not only highlights Shujaa’s dominance in the tournament but also puts them in a strong position to secure a top-four finish in the series. With 20 points, they currently lead the standings, two points ahead of second-placed Chile. This success is a clear indication of Shujaa’s determination to regain promotion to the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.

Captain Onyala praises the team for their inclusive approach and the unity they have displayed. He feels proud to lead the national team, unlike his previous season where he felt out of place as a vice captain. The energy and vibe within the team are contributing to their success.

Onyala acknowledges the hard work and planning that has gone into their recent achievements. He is confident that their current cruise towards success will continue, and they will soon secure their place in the HSBC Series. However, he anticipates more challenging questions once they reach that level.

The Challenger Series plays a significant role in providing a pathway for promotion to the HSBC Sevens. The top four teams from the Grand Final play-off will earn their spot in the HSBC SVNS 2025. The remaining four teams will have the opportunity to compete in regional qualification tournaments for a chance to participate in the World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger 2025.