Fiji-born Jone Kubu is set to make his debut for the Kenyan national rugby team at the Vancouver Sevens tournament in Canada. The tournament kicks off tomorrow, and Kubu will be joined by 18-year-old Jackson Siketi, both of whom are making their first appearance in the Kenya 7s squad.
In a heartfelt interview with the Kenya Rugby Union, Kubu expressed his pride and honor at being selected to represent Kenya. He reflected on the challenges he faced in training after recovering from a long injury layoff, underscoring the resilience it takes to compete at this level. Kubu’s father, who has since passed away, always dreamed of seeing him play professionally; he feels a profound connection to his father’s memory as he prepares to step onto the field.
Kenya’s first match will be against Argentina at 9:08 am tomorrow, shortly after the national men’s 7s team faces Uruguay at 7:08 am. The team, placed in a tough Pool A, will also compete against series champions Argentina and Olympic gold medalists France, making the challenge ahead significant but exciting.
Kubu’s journey in rugby began in Fiji, where he played a pivotal role in the success of Kabras RFC and led the Sugarmen to their first Enterprise Cup victory. His commitment and dedication to Kenyan rugby have been evident since he moved to the country in 2015, initially for the Safari Sevens.
The inclusion of Kubu and Siketi signifies the growing diversity and talent within Kenyan rugby. As they gear up for this high-stakes tournament, there is hope among fans that Kubu’s debut will inspire further success for the team and highlight the evolving rugby landscape in Kenya.
This event not only showcases athletic talent but also represents a personal journey and connection, which adds emotional depth to the competition. The anticipation among supporters for what’s to come is palpable, as they look forward to the team’s performance and potential triumphs on the international stage.
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