Nairobi, Kenya, August 6, 2015 – Kenya have made only two changes to the triumphant women's volleyball team that won the 2015 FIVB World Grand Prix Group 3 final in Australia last month as they kick start their preparations for the World Cup to be held in Japan from August 22 to September 6.
Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) setter Farida Efumbi and Bilha Jepchirchir are the new inclusions in the Malkia Strikers squad that reported to the team’s training camp after a short break following their historic win in the World Grand Prix.
After weeks of debate between the players and the local federation as to which championship (African Games or World Cup) the senior team should take part in, the players finally bowed to pressure when they reported to camp at Kasarani early this week in readiness for the competition in Japan.
As they return to the World Cup for the fifth time, David Lung'aho’s side will have a heavy burden on their shoulders as their fans back home will be keenly following their performance in Japan, where they'll be seeking their first ever win.
Japan has never been that kind to Kenya. In their first appearance way back in 1991, they managed 12th position. Kenya finished 11th in 1995 and 12th again in 2007 and 2011.
Most of these players – who will be led by veteran captain Praxcides Agala, first called to the national team in 2004, and her assistant Janet Wanja – will be returning to Japan with a lot of hope and confidence following Kenya's recent surge of form, which also saw them lift their ninth African Nations Championship in May.
The senior team is training together with their junior side that will be seeking their fifth Gold at the African Games set to be held in Brazzaville from September 4-19.
Kenyan squad:
Praxcides Agala, Ruth Jepng'etich, Monica Biama, Noel Murambi, Mercy Moim, Jane Wacu, Everlyn Makuto, Janet Wanja, Farida Efumbi, Bilha Jepchirchir, Elizabeth Wanyama, Lydia Maiyo, Easther Wangeci, Triza Atuka.