Africa Cup Sevens: Seven debutants in Nigeria's Rugby 7s squad for Mauritius

Africa Cup Sevens: Seven debutants in Nigeria's Rugby 7s squad for Mauritius

Hassan Abdulsalam 13:39 - 07.06.2024

Head coach Steve Lewis has unveiled a squad boasting a significant transformation, focusing on exciting new talent.

The Nigerian Rugby Sevens team is gearing up for the Africa Cup Sevens Tournament in Mauritius. The event kicks off on June 26th and runs through July 8th.

Head coach Steve Lewis has unveiled a squad boasting a significant transformation, focusing on exciting new talent.

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A Mix of Absence and Opportunity

The squad reflects a changing of the guard as co-captains Declan Nwachukwu (center) and Olukolade Awobowale (winger) are unfortunately sidelined due to injuries.

2024 Nigeria Rugby League to kick off June 24th

Former captain Onoru Jatto is also absent from the roster; while their experience will be missed, their absence opens the door for new leaders to emerge within the team.

Seven Debutants Eager to make their Mark

This revamped squad injects a dose of fresh energy with the inclusion of seven debutants. The young players are brimming with potential and hungry to prove themselves on the international stage.

Africa Cup Sevens: Seven debutants in Nigeria's Rugby 7s squad for Mauritius

While the rookies bring a spark of excitement, the team acknowledges the value of experience.

Coach Lewis will need to strike a balance between integrating the new talent and utilizing the leadership qualities of remaining veterans. This blend could create a dynamic and unpredictable force at the Africa Cup.

“This is an exciting new squad for Nigeria 7s, with seven debutants eager to make a name for themselves in Mauritius against the best teams in Africa,” said Coach Lewis.

"We want to finish with strong momentum to help us prepare for the next season," stated Nigeria Rugby President, Dr. Ademola Are.

In Pool A, the Stallions Sevens will compete against Kenya, Madagascar, and host team Mauritius.

Pool B includes Uganda, Burkina Faso, Tunisia, and Côte d'Ivoire, while Pool C features Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, and Algeria.

Nigeria Sevens Team for Mauritius Tournaments:

  • Akpabio Samuel
  • Dodo Boluwatife
  • Sam Esukuloh
  • John Daniel
  • Richard Adeniyi-Jones
  • Macaulay Ogheneloyeme
  • Aniebonam David
  • Odunlami Oluwadara
  • Ilube Matthew
  • Henry-Ajudua Frederick
  • Etim Gabriel
  • Obano Oghenesuvwe Osereme
  • Kitto Oliver Lewis
  • Anthony John-Oluwatobiloba
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