Juma, Kipruto dropped as KVF names Wafalme squad for African Games qualifiers

Juma is currently nursing an injury he picked from training last week.

Outside hitter Nicholas Matui, opposite player Elphas Makuto and middle blocker Levi Ogutu are making a comeback to the 14-man squad after missing the 2023 African Cup of Nations in Egypt.

The squad also includes newbies Hudson Kipchumba of GSU, Equity's Wilson Cheruiyot and Kenya Prisons' Dennis Esokon who will be looking to impress in Egypt to make their debut at the continental stage in Ghana.

An initial squad of 18 players began their non-residential training a fortnight ago at the Nyayo National Stadium ahead of the tournament that will also double as qualifiers for the African Games slated for March in Accra, Ghana.

GSU setter Brian Melly will captain the 14-man squad under the tutelage of head coach Gideon Tarus and his two deputies; Elisha Aliwa and Denis Mokua.

Wafalme alongside Malkia Strikers will jet off on Tuesday for the showpiece that serves off on January 26-28.

Speaking during the unveiling of the squad on Monday at Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium, KVF president Charles Nyaberi challenged Wafalme to go all out and win the tourney while acknowledging the firepower of the hosts who stand out as a major threat.

"We have the potential to thump Egypt and we have done that before. We believe in you and we are confident we shall qualify as winners."

"I also want to encourage the players that have been dropped to keep their heads held high, and train hard because more opportunities lie ahead," added Nyaberi.

Two slots are up for grabs with the top two teams representing Zone V at the continental showpiece.

Wafalme Stars have taken part in the African Games twice with their last participation being in Maputo, Mozambique in 2011 where they claimed bronze.

Wafalme Stars Squad for Zone V tourney

Setters

Brian Melly – Captain

Kelvin Kipkosgei

Libero

James Mutero

Hudson Kipchumba

Opposite players

Elphas Makuto

Joshua Kimaru

Middle blockers

Wilson Cheruiyot

Shadrack Misiko

Brian Kamonde

Levis Ogutu

Outside hitters

Denis Omollo

Naftali Chumba

Denis Esokon

Nicholas Matui

Coaching and support staff

Head Coach: Gideon Tarus

1st Assistant Coach: Elisha Aliwa

2nd Assistant Coach: Denis Mokua

Physiotherapist: Antonette Akhabonje

Team Manager: Brackcides Agala

Technical Coordinator: Paul Bitok

Head of Delegations: Charles Nyaberi

Accompanying Referee – Tabitha Cherono