Nothern Surburbs celebrating at the 2025 Kabeberi 7s
The Lionesses Cubs have named a mix of young and promising players drawn from different clubs across the country set to take part in weekends highly anticipated Safari 7s at the nyayo national stadium, a true reflection of how deep and competitive the women’s game has grown.
Here’s the full list of the 12 players and their clubs:
1.Nelly Chikombe – Impala
2.Ann Akinyi – Nakuru
3.Gloria Matasio – Shamberere
4.Maureen Chebet – Mwamba
5.Diana Mideva – Suburbs
6.Maxine Abuga – Quins
7.Ann Njeri – Impala
8.Ann Namunyak – Hidden Talent
9.Angel Salamba – Quins
10.Refa Ochando – Quins
11.Merishia Negesia – Suburbs
12.Tracy Msungu – Nakuru
Impala’s Reduced Presence
For years, Impala Rugby were the heartbeat of Kenya’s women’s rugby, consistently dominating national team selections. This time, however, they have just three players across both the senior and Cubs squads. Nelly Chikombe and Ann Njeri with the Cubs, and Christabel Lindo in the senior Lionesses side.
Could this be a sign that competition across clubs has finally caught up with the traditional giants?
Chikombe, a speedster from Bungoma, made her Lionesses 15s debut in 2023 in Madagascar. This is her first call-up to the sevens setup, where her pace could prove valuable.
Quins Leading the Charge
Harlequin Queens continue to make their mark with Maxine Abuga, Angel Salamba, and Refa Ochando all earning call-ups.
Maxine, in particular, has been one of Quins’ standout players during this season’s National Sevens Circuit (NSC), sharp, composed, and influential in attack. Her form made her selection almost inevitable as the club continues to establish itself among the strongest women’s rugby sides in the country.
Suburbs’ New Force
Suburbs RFC have been one of the season’s biggest stories, and their rise is reflected in the inclusion of Diana Mideva and Merishia Negesia, both making their Cubs debuts.
Mideva has led from the front throughout the circuit, guiding Suburbs through an impressive campaign that’s turned heads across the rugby fraternity. Then there’s Merishia, fearless, fast, and full of energy, the new girl on the block who’s tormented defenders all season and looks destined for a senior call-up in the near future.
Suburbs, of course, are also home to Kenya international Phoebe Akinyi, who misses out due to injury.
Experience Meets Fresh Legs
From Mwamba, Maureen Chebet continues her steady transition from 15s to 7s rugby. Known for her strong ball carries and defensive work, she’s being eased into the national sevens setup with clear intent.
Ann Akinyi and Tracy Msungu from Nakuru will be looking to make their debuts in style, while Gloria Matasio, another debutant from Shamberere in Kakamega, and Ann Namunyak (Hidden Talent) highlight the growing reach of women’s rugby development outside Nairobi.
The Bigger Picture
The balance between traditional powerhouses and fast-rising clubs tells a story of growth, opportunity, and belief. The Lionesses Cubs represent the next generation of stars, young, fearless, and ready to carry Kenya’s women’s rugby into a bright future.
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