Kenya Pipeline's middle blocker Gladys Ekaru and Yvonne Wavinya of Prisons are the biggest casualties as coach Paul Bitok unveiled the final Malkia Strikers squad ahead of the FIVB Challenger Cup in Laval, France.
Ekaru was part of the Malkia team that played at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2022 World Volleyball Championships.
Two rookies—KCB's Juliana Namutira and Loice Simiyu of Kenya Prisons were the surprise inclusions in the 14-member squad that will compete in Laval from July 27-30.
Mercy Moim will lead the team as the captain and will be deputised by Trizah Atuka in the Louizomar de Moura-coached side.
Malkia Queens have been in training camp for the last three weeks at FIVB's high-performance facility in Morocco and have so far played two friendly matches against the Moroccan national team, which they won.
Bitok expressed confidence in the team, saying they are ready to challenge for both France and Cameroon titles.
"We are now ready to fly Kenya's flag in both competitions in France and later in Cameroon. Our target is to come back with the qualification ticket to the 2024 Paris Olympics and the African title in Cameroon," said Bitok while unveiling his final team.
"The team's spirit is very high and ready for the battle. The sponsorship we got from Mozzart Bet, NOC-K, and the Ministry of Sports has really motivated the squad and we are grateful for the support."
Malkia will play their first Challenger Cup match against Colombia on July 27 in the quarter-finals in what is a direct elimination format. The other teams in the tournament are Mexico, Vietnam, France, Sweden, Ukraine, and Croatia.
"We shall play our last friendly match against Mexico one day before our 1/4 final match. We will also have other friendlies after the championship in preparation for Cameroon," Bitok added.
Final squad—Setters: Immaculate Nekesa, Rose Magoi; Opposite players: Sharon Chumba, Loice Simiyu, Juliana Namutira; Outside Hitters (Left attackers): Moim Mercy (captain), Veronica Adhiambo, Leonida Kasaya, Jemimah Siango; Liberos: Agripina Kundu; Middle Blockers: Edith Wisah, Belinda Barasa, Lorine Chebet and Trizah Atuka (assistant captain