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Kenya look set to get some ideal preparation for the next leg of the IRB Sevens World Series by participating at the Heineken Hottest 7s in Darwin (23-24 Jan).

The Kenyans, who will take part in the fourth leg of the World Series in Wellington on 5-6 Feb, will be able to test themselves against quality opposition, as they look to move up from their current position of sixth in the overall IRB log.

As well as attracting the best of domestic players in the country, the Hottest Sevens is famous for attracting top international sides with the Borneo Eagles confirming their presence in Australia’s Northern Territory at the end of the month.

The Shuuja will remain in the country ahead of Wellington where they will train with the Australian team, who are also taking part in Darwin.

Kenya made the Cup semi-finals in George just before Christmas narrowly losing 19-14 to eventual winners, New Zealand.

It’s a major coup for the event with the Kenyans set to making their first appearance at the the tournament, giving local Territorians a first glimpse of stars such as Humphrey Kayange and speedster Collins Injera.

"They are a very good side - as good as any team running around at the moment. And they'll be right up there as a team that can win our tournament", said Northern Territory Rugby Union general manager Tim Heath, speaking to NT News.

Strong Australian contingent

Australia, competing under the Aussie Spirit banner, will be near full strength for the event coached by Michael O’Conner. The side is expected to stay together ahead of Wellington, a luxury that has not always been afforded in the past to them. The Aussies took the Plate in Dubai but failed to recreate similar form in George, crashing out to England in the Plate semi-finals.

Local hopes could rest on the NT Mosquitoes who are another side set to be strong for the event. The Mozzies were at the Singapore Sevens in November and will have Nick Phipps and Jacob Taylor in their ranks. Both players were part of the Australia side that competed in Dubai and George.