•The Morans will face Nigeria at 1:34 pm and Kisia termed the Nigeria side an upcoming side
•Kisia expected a competitive tournament, especially with the participation of South Africa A team for the two-week championship
Image: FILE
Kenya Morans begin their Africa Cup Sevens title defence against Madagascar on Saturday at the Labourdonnais Stadium in Port-Louis, Mauritius.
The side, coached by Kenya Sevens assistant coach Louis Kisia, arrived on the Indian Ocean Island on Thursday afternoon and held their captain's run on Friday in readiness for their opening match.
The tactician said a majority of the side played at the Africa Games in Accra, Ghana in March and their experience from that tournament will be vital with the side winning bronze.
“It's a fairly strong side with youth and experience. We want to go all out and do the country proud," said Kisia.
Kisia expects a tricky encounter against the fleet-footed Malagasy outfit who cause problems for top sides.
“They are small but nimble and fast. They offer a different challenge to most of the teams we face but it will be a tough encounter,” noted Kisia
The Morans will face the upcoming side Nigeria at 1:34 pm. “ They are a side who are on the rise. Very physical and big forwards. It will be a good test for us,” he added.
Morans' final match will be against the hosts Mauritius at 3:18 pm. Kisia expects a competitive tournament, especially with the participation of South Africa's 'A' team in the two-week championship.
“It's going to spice up things. We know South Africa is a top rugby nation and it will enable all other nations to rise to the occasion."
Kisia also singled out Zimbabwe and Uganda as teams to watch out for in the championship.
This year’s African Men’s 7s will be played across two weekends, with the team having the highest point tally being crowned champions.
A significant change has been made in Pool C, where South Africa will join the group, replacing Ghana, who are now expected to skip the event.
Pool 'B' will see the 2022 champions Uganda Sevens take on Burkina Faso, Tunisia and Ivory Coast.
Morans Squad: Brian Mutua (co-captain), Ben Salem (co-captain), William Mwanji, Dennis Abukuse, Elvis Olukusi, Richard Liva, Gabriel Ayimba, Harmony Wamalwa, Festus Shiasi, Joel Inzuga, Victor Odhiambo and Edmund Anya. Officials: Louis Kisia (head coach), Morgan Ngumbi ( team manager) and John Elly (physio).