Kenya Sevens Head Coach Kevin Wambua has unveiled a rigorous and comprehensive framework for player selection into the Shujaa squad, providing clear pathways for aspiring rugby talents as the 2025 National Sevens Circuit approaches.

This detailed outline, aimed at fostering homegrown talent and ensuring peak performance, covers stringent physical, technical, and positional requirements.

Aspiring Shujaa players will face demanding physical benchmarks. Forwards must achieve a minimum of Level 18 on the Yo-Yo Test, execute 10-meter passes, complete 10m sprints in 2 seconds or less, and 40m runs in under 5.30 seconds.

Strength tests include a 130 KGS one-rep max bench press and a 180 KGS two-rep max squat.

Backs are held to even higher aerobic standards with a minimum Level 19 on the Yo-Yo Test, faster sprint times (5 seconds for 40m, 12 seconds for 100m), and slightly lower strength benchmarks (120 KGS bench, 160 KGS squat).

Both positions require proficiency in front-on, side-on, and back tackles, alongside contested high ball retrieval.

Beyond raw athleticism, Wambua’s criteria emphasize specific positional acumen. Props are evaluated on aerial capability, jakal prowess, passing accuracy, 70% tackle efficiency, and decision-making.

Hookers need strong jakal skills, speed, and 80% tackle efficiency, coupled with aerial capability for lineout lifting.

Playmakers like fly-halves and scrum-halves are assessed on kick accuracy, organization, pass accuracy, and decision-making under pressure.

Centres must demonstrate line-breaking ability and 80% tackle efficiency, while wingers are scrutinized for speed, 1v1 prowess, and aerial skills.

The selection process is dynamic, incorporating continuous skill development, progression tracking, and post-tournament player rankings based on aspects like line breaks, evasion, finishing, and decision-making.

This structured approach by Coach Wambua aims to build a robust Shujaa team capable of competing at the highest levels of World Rugby Sevens Series.