Kenya eyes debut at five-a-side hockey World Cup

The national five-a-side field hockey team manager Kevin Lugalia, is confident Kenya will qualify for the hockey World Cup scheduled for January 2024 in Oman.

Kenya will take part in the African qualification event for the first time ever from December 10-15 2022 in Ismailia, Egypt.

“We have been preparing for this for a while despite the five-a-side format being new to the senior team.

“About three quarters of the squad have participated in the 5s before, and they know what it entails and it takes to play at that level. They have also competed against strong teams in the world and I believe they will make it to the World Cup,” Lugalia said.

He admitted selecting a national for the assignment had been a tough task.

“Some players might be asking why they aren't on the squad yet they are the best but someone else. The truth is it was difficult to select 10 players from a squad of over 30 players.

“The criteria is well known; we have players who are very good at playing at 11s and not 5s. So, one has to be very keen on what he or she wants to represent the country,” Lugalia added.

The men's team captain skipper Ivan Ludiali, highlighted they have worked extra smart on technical issues.

“We have been training as a unison for some time and we are in a better position. We have also dealt with technical issues so that to rectify some mistakes and I believe we shall qualify for the world cup,” Ludiali stated.

His sentiments were supported by Blades (women) team captain Caroline Gushu.

“We are ready to take the challenge. We have been training and we have confident we shall qualify,” said Gushu.

Chui will play against hosts Egypt, Nigeria, Namibia, African giants South Africa and Zambia, while Blades will be facing Egypt, South Africa, Namibia and Zambia.