Kabras play-maker Brian Tanga is targeting a key role in Shujaa following his return from injury ahead of the World Seven Series in Perth, Australia.
The diminutive playmaker, known for his sidesteps and trickery, returned to the side six months after a wrist injury sustained at the Dala Sevens.
He said he is delighted to be back in the fold for Perth Sevens slated for January 24-26.
“I’m happy to be back. I have missed playing with my brothers and I am looking forward to competing against the best players in the world,” he added.
Tanga inclusion adds experience to a young vibrant side that includes senior players Vincent Onyala, Tony Omondi, Dennis Abukuse and Kevin Wekesa.
The alumni of Ambira High said the side needs to rectify small mistakes which were evident during the Dubai and Cape Town tournaments.
"The boys performed well but a couple of tweaks here and there will enable them to do something special in the upcoming tournaments,” added Tanga.
He said facing New Zealand, Fiji, and Uruguay in Perth would be a tall order, but he believes the boys have what it takes to pull upsets.
“There are no easy games. Sevens is very unpredictable and on any given day, any team can win. All the technical bench needs to do is to conduct extensive analysis on our opponents and capitalise on their weaknesses,” he added.
The playmaker observed that competition for places in the squad is intense.
“If we snooze, we lose. We have to work hard and be at our best. Everyone wants to be part of the travelling squad,” said Tanga.
Tanga faces stiff competition for the starting position from co-captain Samuel Asati.
“We both play similar positions but our approach is different. It’s a good rivalry and it’s good for the team going forward.”
Shujaa will open their campaign against New Zealand on Friday before facing Fiji on the same day.
They finish their preliminary match against Uruguay on Saturday.
The knockout phase and classification matches will be played on Saturday and Sunday.
Tanga was bullish that the side will
finish in the top eight come the end of
the season and maintain core status.
