Simiyu returns as Shujaa head coach

Innocent Simiyu has been named the new Kenya Sevens team head coach, replacing New Zealander Paul Feeney who left the role by mutual consent with the Kenya Rugby Union in June.

His appointment marks his second return to the position from which he was sacked two years ago after he accepted full responsibility for the infamous Paris Sevens player protest that followed a spectacular sponsor fallout.

KRU chairman Gangla Oduor who said the former Shujaa captain was the best pick among four candidates that went through an intensive interviewing process.

“The board took time to review the interview panel process and its recommendations and at the end of the process the board made the decision to appoint Innocent Simiyu as the new head coach of Kenya Sevens,” Gangla said.

It ends a week of intense speculation with the KRU alleged to have reversed its initial decision to appoint KCB RFC assistant coach Dennis Mwanja to the role.

Simiyu said he was grateful for getting another chance to lead the team.

“I’m very proud to be honoured as the head coach of the national team, I know the task is quiet big looking at the challenges we’re in of the Covid 19 pandemic but for me i’m very grateful for being given this opportunity,” he said.

Simiyu led Shujaa to their best ever finish in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens series having finished with 104 points.