Shujaa risk relegation from HSBC Series, warns Kayange

Kenya rugby sevens legend Humphrey Kayange has called on the Kenya Rugby Union to address the teething problems with the senior players to avert a looming relegation of Shujaa from the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.

Paul ‘Pau’ Murunga charges lost to a non-core side Tonga 20-17 in the 13th place semi final after losing 19-14 to Wales in the Challenge Trophy quarterfinal match, to collect a point in the Sydney Sevens played over the weekend dropping  to 13th place with 12 points.

Shujaa started on the wrong footing on Saturday in Australia, losing 24-14 to Canada before going down 41-0 to former Kenya 7s coach, Mike Friday led USA, before falling 40-17 to France in their last Pool B match.

Kenya heads to Las Vegas Sevens in March as early relegation candidates with the former Shujaa captain urging the Union and players to resolve their tussle before it’s too late to save the team from being relegated.

“It’s for the players who have a lot of values for the team and the KRU board to sit down and get a way forward; since with four points definitely you’re heading to relegation.”

“It’s not a joke being relegated at the end of the season and the younger players will miss the chance to play in the HSBC Series; we know its contractual disagreement which should be resolved for a better tomorrow for Shujaa and the junior players.”

Shujaa’s Andrew Amonde in action, in Las Vegas. Photo/ David Kiania

Kayange who was awarded the presidential Order of Golden Warriors in 2010 believes the two parties (KRU and the players) should come together and end the contractual disagreement.

“Contract issues include both parties; because when you give me a contract I can agree, reject or get to a further discussion, so it’s up for KRU and the players to sit down and resolve this once and for all.”

The 34-year-old advised the junior players to work hard and enjoy the experience in the World Series.

“You just enjoy the play and the experience in the Series, for a player to travel in the series for the first time there will be always be some excitement but there is a huge task of performing well in the outing.”

In Las Vegas, Kenya will face USA for the second time this season, France for the fifth time and another second meeting with Argentina in pool B.

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Shujaa HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series Kenya Rugby Union Humphrey Kayange Kenya Rugby Sevens

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