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Kenya Sevens head coach Innocent Simiyu yesterday unveiled a 13-man squad for the Tokyo Olympics to be skippered by experienced forward Andrew Amonde, with four players who were part of the team during the Rio Olympics, making the team.

Joining Andrew Amonde on the experienced list is HSBC second all-time top try scorer Collins Injera, Billy Odhiambo and Willy Ambaka.

Injera has been missing in action, especially during the invitaional events the team took part in, but it’s believed his experience and pace is still valuable for the team.

“The selection was tough as all the boys put in good work and a very positive attitude. 

“We are happy to have a few experienced players fit and back into the fold. Our key target is getting out of the group stage.

Our first group game would set the tempo for our performance in Tokyo,” coach Innocent Simiyu told People Sports.

The 13-man squad also welcomes Harlequins experienced fly-half Eden Agero, Nakuru’s winger Nelson Oyoo, KCB’s forward Vincent Onyala and Homeboyz duo of Alvin ‘Buffa’ Otieno and Jeff Oluoch. Completing the squad is Herman Humwa, Daniel Taabu and Jacob Ojee.

Winger Ojee is the only player to return back from injury after nursing an ankle set back picked last month whereas Sammy Oliech who picked a similar injury in Dubai, is expected back the next season.

A strong three-man reserve will have Nondies’ forward Dennis Ombachi, Homeboyz forward Bush Mwale and Oilers speedster Derrick Keyoga.

The three will be on alert as substitutes who will be expected to rise to the occasion in the case of any injuries in the run up to the Games.

Shujaa is in pool C of the global showpiece where they will rub shoulders against Rio Olympics bronze medalist South Africa, USA and Olympic debutants Ireland.

Meanwhile, Lionesses will be captained by Philadelphia Olando who is among two more players who featured at the last Olympics outing in 2016. 

The others are forward Sheila Chajira and winger Janet ‘Shebesh’ Okello.

While naming his squad coach Felix Oloo also noted injuries forced him to drop a couple of players.

“We based our selection criteria on attendance, discipline, medical assessment, player fitness as well as an understanding of the game and positional roles each player has. This is what guided our selection of the final 13 players. 

We also have a few players who missed out on the selection because they are yet to recover from injuries picked up in previous tournaments,” Oloo told People Sports.

Other players to watch out for in the Lionesses squad include Stella Wafula, Grace Adhiambo, Sinaida Aura and Sarah Oluche.