SILVERBACKS captain Djuma Adams Mugabo is a major doubt for next month’s Hong Kong 10s. The fly-half injured his shoulder during last week’s Buffaloes 7s and has been restricted to light training during the team’s training sessions at Rugunga.

Silverbacks’ coach Gerald Nsenga, who is expected to name his final 14-man squad this afternoon, concedes that his omission would be a big blow for the side.

"He is still not in good shape because of the injury and we don’t know if he will be fit for the tournament but should he miss out, his experience, leadership skills and agility will be greatly missed,” Nsenga said before stressing, "But that should not deter us from going a step better and winning the Main Cup.”

Sharks flanker Emmanuel Nemeye is also a serious doubt after injuring his shoulder during one of the team’s training sessions.

Rwanda is making her second appearance in the tournament. During their debut last year, the team garnered huge support from the rugby fraternity after putting in a spirited display after winning four of their six group matches to reach the plate final.

Mugabo was the start performer with eight tries to finish as the second highest scorer. Silverbacks prospect Moise Habumugisha also scooped the tournament’s young player award.

In the plate final, Rwanda lost 0-7 against the ARC All-Stars, which had a selection of players from Hong Kong, New Zealand and South Africa.

The tournament is slated to run from March 22-1 April.

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