BENITHA Mukandayisenga has replaced Judith Hakizimana in the women’s national beach volleyball team ahead of the upcoming second round qualifiers in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

Along with Seraphine Mukantambara, in January, Hakizimana helped Rwanda to book its slot into the second round after topping sub-zone 5 in the first round tournament held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

However, according to head coach Christophe Mudahinyuka, the 33-year old was dropped that a younger and more ‘in-form’ player, Mukandayisenga, can be given a chance.

"She (Mukandayisenga) will make a formidable team with Mukantambara,” said Mudahinyuka.

Last month, Rwanda was confirmed as the host country for Group B qualifiers – in the second round – scheduled for March 25-29 in Rubavu District, on the shores of Lake Kivu.

The hosts will be vying for one of the two available tickets – to the ultimate third round – against Morocco, Niger, Sudan and South Africa.

Rwanda’s two trams have started non-residential training at Amahoro Stadium, and they will be reporting to camp for final preparations on March 15.

Team A: Charlotte Nzayisenga and Valentine Munezero

Team B: Benitha Mukandayisenga and Seraphine Mukantambara