NRFF adds three foreign-based stars to Togo-bound squad

THE NRFF has named eight changes in the squad for Africa Cup Sevens North Tournament, which begins in Lomé, Togo, tomorrow.

The squad, which is being coached by South African Sevens Rugby legend, Fabian Juries, will
feature a plethora of talent, including three foreign-based players, two from the United Kingdom and one from the U.S. The addition, according to the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation’s (NRFF) coach, is to ensure the team won’t lack pace.

“In this Black Stallions squad, I think we have an extremely talented group of players with the
right mix of experience and youth” he said.

“The foreign based players will make a big difference. Datum has blistering pace and will be vital to the team, Ike will bring something new to this squad as well and Temi Okenla is an experienced playmaker. We will not lack pace at all as we still have our wing man; Christian Ogar and Isaac Sani, who will bring in his power play onto the squad.”

The core of the team will know each other well with five of the squad coming from the SW League
leaders, Cowries, while consistent performances by Nuhu Ibrahim and Obi Wilson from Barewa in
Kano, have been rewarded and will bring much needed experience.

Juries returned to Lagos last week having first worked with the Black Stallions last November.

Speaking from his home town, Port Elizabeth, recently, Juries said he was excited about the prospects.

“We will need to work on fitness levels and skills with the guys but there talent is there,” he said.
In the team are captain, Azeez Ladipo and young understudy fly half from Jos RFC, Alfred Oche.