The 26th edition of the Safari Sevens, Africa’s premier rugby sevens tournament, is set to kick off on Friday, October 11, 2024, at the Machakos Kenyatta Stadium. The event promises thrilling rugby action over three days, showcasing top teams from across the continent and beyond.
Men’s Competition: Shujaa to Headline Pool A
In the men’s category, ten teams are divided into two pools. Pool A will see Kenya’s Shujaa as the top seed, taking on a mix of local and international challengers, including Kenya Varsity Select, Qatar, Lions Rugby, and Zimbabwe. Shujaa, Kenya’s national rugby sevens team, is expected to deliver an exciting performance as the home favourite.
Meanwhile, Pool B is equally stacked with intense matchups, headlined by Kenya Harlequins, who recently secured victory in the National Sevens Circuit. They will face strong opposition from Kenya Morans, Uganda, Shogun, and the Red Wailers.
Pool A:
- Shujaa
- Zimbabwe
- Lions Rugby
- Qatar
- Kenya Varsity Select
Pool B:
- Uganda
- Kenya Morans
- Kenya Harlequins
- Shogun
- Red Wailers
Women’s Competition: Round Robin Format
The women’s category will be played in a round-robin format featuring six teams. Fans can expect exciting clashes between teams such as Kenya Lionesses, Uganda Lady Cranes, Kenya Cubs, and international sides like Costa Blanca Barbarians and Shogun.
Schedule: First Matches Set for Friday Afternoon
The tournament’s first round of games will kick off at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 11, 2024. Below is the itinerary for the opening matchups:
Men’s Category Matches:
- Shogun vs Kenya Harlequins
- Red Wailers vs Kenya Morans
- Qatar vs Lions Rugby
- Varsity Select vs Zimbabwe
Women’s Category Matches:
- Shogun vs Uganda
- Uganda 2 vs Kenya Lionesses
- Costa Blanca Barbarians vs Kenya Cubs
Additional Men’s Category Matches:
- Shogun vs Red Wailers
- Kenya Harlequins vs Uganda
- Qatar vs Varsity Select
- Lions Rugby vs Shujaa
As the tournament progresses, fans can look forward to exhilarating performances from some of the best rugby teams in Africa and beyond, with Kenya’s Shujaa and Kenya Harlequins expected to be among the teams to watch.
ALSO READ: Kenya’s 24-Man squad announced for AFCON 2025 Qualifiers against Cameroon
