By KPC Sports reporter
Kenya has unveiled its Davis Cup Africa Group IV team, set to compete at the Nairobi Club from June 17 to 20, 2026.
The announcement was made during a ceremony attended by Tennis Kenya President Wanjiru Mbugua-Karani, Secretary General Nancy Nduku, NOCK Vice President Colonel (Rtd) Nashon Randiek, government representatives, and Nairobi Club officials.
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The squad will be captained by Rosemary Owino, with Allan Cooper as Team Manager, and led on court by player-captain Ismael Changawa.
Other members of the youthful team include Kael Shah, the 2026 NCAA Doubles champion, Raymond Riziki Oduor, Liberty Baraka Kibuye, Zayyan Virani, Jeff Okuku, and Aum Chandarana.
Coach Rosemary Owino emphasized the long-term vision behind the selection, noting, “Our average age in this team is 20 and normally if you start with an average age of 20 that means we have a very long journey with this team.”
“So, this is positive for Tennis Kenya because one of the things that Tennis Kenya is trying to put into place are sustainable systems.”
Her remarks underscored the federation’s commitment to building a foundation for future success in both the Davis Cup and Kenyan tennis more broadly.
President Wanjiru Mbugua-Karani highlighted the sacrifices and dedication of the players, stating, “The talented players standing before us have worked hard for this opportunity. They are the future of tennis and represent the good youth structures Tennis Kenya has put in place. They have trained for hours.”
He added: “They have sacrificed. They have balanced school, university, work and family commitments. They have faced setbacks and still chosen to keep going. But hard work also needs opportunity.”
She called on Kenyans to rally behind the team, stressing that home advantage could play a decisive role in their performance.
The Davis Cup, often referred to as the World Cup of Tennis, has a rich history in Kenya dating back to 1975.
Mbugua-Karani paid tribute to past players such as Yashvin Shretta, Salim Rana, Eno Polo, Paul Wekesa, Asif Karim, Philip Ilako, and Francis Rogoi, noting that today’s team stands on the shoulders of those who paved the way.
“That is the beauty of Davis Cup, it is legacy. One generation handing over the flag to the next. And today, we unveil a new generation. This is a young team. A hungry team. A team with dreams,” she said.
NOCK Vice President Nashon Randiek echoed the optimism, remarking, “This is a young team as we’ve been told they’re hungry for the victory and we don’t see anything preventing them. We know that preparing these players is not a walk in the park.”
“It is financially demanding not only from the Federation but also from the parents because we know the process. If they are properly prepared and they are given the right equipment and the right atmosphere they have the capacity.”
Owino, described as one of Africa’s leading tennis coaches and a pioneer in the sport, brings decades of experience in player development.
Cooper, a former Davis Cup player who represented Kenya for 12 years, adds invaluable insight into the pressures and responsibilities of international competition.
“Wear the Kenyan colours with pride. Play with courage. Play for each other. Play for Kenya,” urged Mbugua-Karani.
