Talented Menengai Oilers halfback Glacious Nganya has explained why he chose jersey number 29.For Nganya, the number 29 jersey is more than just a number on his back. It is a tribute to a player he admires, a reflection of his rugby inspiration, and a symbol that is increasingly becoming synonymous with his growing reputation in Kenyan rugby.Download our Mozzart Sport app for more newsNganya was among the standout performers as Shujaa successfully defended their Safari 7s title over the weekend. His national team call-up followed a breakthrough National 7s Circuit season.The scrum-half was part of the team that won the Africa Men's 7s title with the Morans.His exploits at the continental tournament earned him a promotion to the senior national team alongside fellow debutants Elvis Olukusi and Kabras RFC youngster Rayvon Ambale for the Safari 7s.Humphrey Kayange impressed with Kenya Sevens rebuild after relegationWhile Nganya’s speed, distribution and attacking instincts have caught the attention of rugby fans, his distinctive jersey number has also become an important part of his identity.Speaking about the inspiration behind his choice, the Oilers star revealed that it was South African rugby sevens sensation Ricardo ‘Tricky Ricky’ Duarttee who influenced his decision.“My role model inspired jersey number 29 in rugby sevens. It is Ricardo ‘Tricky Ricky’ Duarttee from South Africa. He donned the number in his breakout season, when he was named World Rugby Sevens Rookie of the Year, and I really admired his playing style. I loved watching him play, and that inspired me to choose this number,” Nganya explained.##NAJAVA_MECA_10027940##Duarttee, a playmaker renowned for his footwork, balance and elusive running, rose to prominence with the South African national sevens team, the Blitzboks. His flair and ability to beat defenders have made him a fan favourite, earning him the nickname ‘Tricky Ricky’.The South African’s influence on Nganya highlights how international stars can inspire the next generation of rugby players, with their playing styles and achievements shaping the ambitions of emerging talents.For Nganya, however, the number 29 has gradually grown beyond its original inspiration to become a recognisable feature of his own rugby journey.How Kenyan International Amaitsa influenced Agonda's rugby career“It has been great wearing this jersey. In fact, many people know me today because of number 29. I believe I was the first player to wear it in the Shujaa and Morans setups,” he said.The number has accompanied Nganya through an impressive domestic campaign in which he emerged as one of the most productive players on the National 7s Circuit.The Menengai Oilers star featured in 34 matches, scoring 258 points and 24 tries while providing five assists. He also recorded 12 line breaks, beat 21 defenders and completed 32 carries, underlining his influence in attack.His attacking contribution was particularly impressive, with an attacking rating of 8.0 and an offensive impact rating of 303.8. He successfully converted 27 of his 46 attempts, achieving a 59 per cent goal-kicking efficiency, while maintaining 97 per cent passing accuracy.##NAJAVA_MECA_10032861##Nganya averaged 7.6 points and 0.7 tries per match, with a ball-handling efficiency of 90.5 per cent. His overall circuit rating stood at 6.8, reflecting a season of consistent growth and attacking productivity.His best performances came at the Dala 7s, where his overall rating climbed to 7.7, and his attacking rating peaked at 9.5. He followed that with another strong showing at the Kabeberi 7s, recording an attacking rating of 9.2.In Kisumu, Nganya finished as both the top try scorer and leading points scorer before repeating the double at Kabeberi, further cementing his status as one of the circuit’s most dangerous attacking players.Knight Otuoma lists coaches who shaped her journey ahead of Dakar Youth OlympicsDespite his impressive performances at the Safari 7s, Nganya believes there is still room for improvement.“I would rate my performance at this tournament at seven out of ten. I made a few small mistakes, but I know I will continue to improve with time,” he said.