Kabras ace Roy Maruti living his dream as Wonder 7s book Safari 7s quarter-final clash with Shujaa

Kabras Sugar youngster Roy Maruti is enjoying every moment of his first appearance with Wonder 7s after helping the invitational side secure a place in the quarter-finals of the 28th edition of Safari 7s.

Maruti, who has been given an opportunity to feature alongside players from different backgrounds has expressed his delight at making his debut for the side, describing the experience as an important step in his rugby journey.

Wonder 7s endured a difficult start to their campaign at Nyayo National Stadium, losing 22-14 to Zimbabwe on Friday before suffering a 40-12 defeat against Kenya Morans in their opening match on Saturday.

ALSO READ: Shujaa, Kenya Morans storm into 2026 Safari 7s main cup quarterfinals unbeaten

However, they responded in style in their final group-stage fixture, recording a convincing 29-12 victory over Gel Squad 7s to secure their place in the last eight.

For Maruti, the win was particularly special as it marked his first victory while representing Wonder Sevens, making his debut tournament experience even more memorable.

“This is my first time playing for Wonder Sevens, and this was also my first win with them,” Maruti told Sportpesa blog.

The youngster, who has continued to develop his game with Kabras Sugar, believes playing alongside the international side has given him an opportunity to learn from teammates with different experiences and approaches to the game.

Maruti praised the quality of rugby displayed by his teammates, explaining that the experience has helped him acquire new skills while building friendships away from his usual club environment.

“They are playing good rugby, which is something I am taking positively. Playing with them has been a favourite moment for me, and I want to thank them. I’ve made new friends, and I am learning new skills from my teammates. Life is good so far,” he added.

ALSO READ: Marco Jones praises Kenyan fans after impressive Safari 7s try

Beyond the excitement of competing at one of Africa’s biggest rugby sevens tournaments, Maruti said the importance of teamwork has been one of his biggest lessons so far.

The youngster believes individual talent alone is not enough to guarantee success, noting that players must work together if they are to achieve their collective goals on the pitch.

“I havee also learnt the importance of playing as a team because teamwork enhances winning. That is one thing I will take home from this experience,” he explained.

Maruti’s experience at Safari 7s could prove valuable as he continues to pursue his ambitions in rugby, particularly with the opportunity to test himself against players from different teams and learn from a more diverse playing environment.

ALSO READ: Zimbabwe assistant coach Shamu impressed as Cheetahs reach 2026 Safari 7s quarter-finals

The Kabras Sugar youngster also had a bold message for aspiring rugby players hoping to make a name for themselves in the sport, urging them to aim for excellence rather than settle for ordinary achievements.

“To the young people, why be normal when you can be the best? You are born normal, and you want to die normal? Be the best, just be the best,” he said.

Having secured their place in the quarter-finals, Wonder Sevens now face a major test against Kenya Shujaa today as they seek to extend their run in the competition.

The encounter will offer Maruti and his teammates another opportunity to showcase their abilities against top-level opposition, with the youngster hoping to build on the confidence gained from their first victory.

For Maruti, however, his debut has already provided valuable lessons, new friendships and a memorable first win, giving him plenty of motivation as he continues to develop his rugby career.