Policeman Birir to captain national team

Policeman Richard Birir has been mandated to captain the men national hockey team ahead of Monday’s Africa cup of Nations to get underway at the City Park Stadium in Nairobi.

The defender was to deputize long serving captain Zack Aura of the armed forces and playing for Kisumu Simba but the forward pulled out owing to job commitments.

The Meshack Senge released squad once again will have Kenyan international Barnabas  plying his trade in Italian side HC Superbha retaining his position in midfield  despite uncertainties concerning his availability.

 The rest of the team is pretty much the same with young blood being blended with experienced players. Another doubtful Frank Wanangwe was retained and will be marshalling the midfield. He will partner with Allan Inungu, Brian Musasia, Willis Okeyo and Leon Magomere.The forward ammunition has Francis Esikuri,George Mutira, Frank Wanangwe and Moses Cheplait.

“Once again sacrifices had to be made leaving out other equally good players. I have no doubt the once who made it to the final 18 will get the work done. Our fixtures are very tough but we are ready to stamp our authority.”Said Senge.

Kenya Team: Linus Sang, James Kayieko, Kenneth Nyongesa, Wilson Birir, Richard Saina, Constant Wakhura, Brian Saina, Maxwell Wakhungu, Willis Okeyo, Allan Inungu, Leon Magomere, Francis Esikuri, Brian Musasia, Frank Wanangwe, Davis Wanangwe, George Mutira, Moses Cheplaiti, Barnabas Odhiambo

Coach- Meshack Senge

Assistant coach- Inderjit Matharu

Team Manager- Geofrey Bila

Conditioning coach-Cyrus Kanyi.