Kenyan rugby is celebrating a landmark achievement after both the national men’s and women’s sevens teams-Shujaa and the Lionesses-secured their places in the 2026 HSBC Division 2.
This double qualification marks a significant step forward for the country’s sevens programs as they work to reclaim their place among the world’s rugby elite.
Shujaa, drawn in Pool A alongside Samoa, Portugal, and the USA, experienced a challenging campaign in the final qualifying tournament.
Despite registering only one win and two losses in the pool stage, Shujaa finished second in their group, which was enough to book a spot in the playoff final.
In a must-win encounter, the team delivered a commanding performance, defeating Canada 24-5 to seal their slot in the 2026 Division 2.
On the women’s side, the Kenya Lionesses mirrored their male counterparts’ resilience. The Lionesses also managed one win and two losses in the pool phase, finishing third in their group.
Their playoff final pitted them against continental rivals South Africa-a team with whom they have shared many fiercely contested matches. In a tense and dramatic showdown, South Africa led 14-10 late in the second half.
However, in the dying moments, Freshia Adhiambo broke through the South African defense to score a converted try, giving the Lionesses a 17-14 victory and their first-ever qualification for HSBC Division 2.
Team captains and coaching staff from both squads expressed pride in their teams’ determination and growth, emphasizing that Division 2 will serve as a launchpad for a return to the top tier of international rugby. “The victory was not only emotional but historic.
The girls really worked hard for this, and we will use Division 2 as a platform to get to the HSBC international stage. We are just beginning,” said Lionesses captain Grace.
The double qualification is being hailed as a new dawn for Kenyan rugby, symbolizing hope, resilience, and the promise of future success on the global stage.
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