The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has sacked Shujaa head coach Innocent Simiyu.
In a statement on Wednesday, May 11, KRU stated that it had parted ways with the tactician, together with part of the technical bench members, including Michael Shamiah and Anthony Muchiri.
“We offer our sincerest thanks to Innocent, Michael and Anthony for their tireless efforts and extend our very best wishes for the future,” read part of the statement signed by Ian Mugambi, the Union’s Honorary Secretary.
At the same time, Damian McGrath will be in charge of Shujaa for the next two years leading up to the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, France.
The Union noted, “He boasts close to thirty years coaching experience, having most recently led Germany 7s to victory at the World Rugby Challenger Series in Chile in 2020. He previously coached Canada 7s between 2016 and 2019, leading the Canadians to the cup title at the 2017 Singapore 7s.”
Damian was in charge of the Samoa 7s during the 2015-16 season, leading them to the cup title at the 2016 Paris 7s.
He also coached England 7s at the 2002 and 2014 Commonwealth Games in Manchester and Glasgow as well as the 2005 Rugby World Cup 7s in Hong Kong.
In the new arrangement, Kevin Wambua, who has been a part of the Shujaa leadership, will assist the Briton in ensuring a seamless transition while Geoffrey Kimani takes up the Strength and Conditioning coaching role.