NAIROBI, June 22 (Xinhua) -- Briton William Webster will take over the mantle and lead Kenya Sevens team as head coach to the World Cup in San Francisco in the United States in July.
Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has opted to name Webster as the new coach taking over his senior Innocent Simiyu with whom he served as assistant coach.
Simiyu has been fired after he owned up to the decision by the team to block out sponsors logo off their shirts during the final round of the World Series on June 9-10 in Paris.
The players said their action was triggered by frustration after they failed to get paid bonuses and salaries, which had accrued to about 40,000 U.S. dollars.
This is despite the team having entered a financial deal with Brand Kenya to a tune of 200,000 dollars. Kenya government has since cancelled the sponsorship deal with KRU.
"KRU has mutually parted ways with Kenya Sevens head coach Innocent Simiyu effective immediately. He took full responsibility for the display that saw the playing unit blank out sponsor's branding in Paris Sevens which negatively impacted our country and sponsor's image," said KRU in a statement on Thursday night.
"We are fully aware that the Rugby World Cup Sevens is around the corner and are taking the necessary steps to ensure our participation."
However, insiders said Webster has been promoted to head coach role as Kenya will be out to face Tonga in the World Cup preliminary round with the winner facing Scotland in the last 16 category.
However, it was not clear when the team will resume training. Webster has been Simiyu's deputy for the past season. The World Cup is due from July 20-22 in San Francisco, USA.
