Kenya Cup semi finalists Kabras Sugar,Menengai Oilers,KCB RFC and Nondescripts are confident of outwitting their opponents and make the final.
The Cup semi finals are scheduled Saturday in Kakamega and Nairobi with the final scheduled April 12th .
Defending Champions Kabras RFC will host Nondescripts at the Kakamega Showground while KCB will be at home against Menengai Oilers.
The Kenya Rugby Union were boosted by KBL’s Ksh.10M sponsorship.
KCB Rugby, eight-time Kenya Cup champions, will be aiming to secure their spot in the final once again as they take on a formidable Menengai Oilers side. Austin Sikutwa, KCB winger, reflected on the season’s journey, emphasizing the team’s readiness despite facing stiff opposition in the semi final.
“So far, the season has been great, though we’ve had some tough matches along the way. We’ve had to put our best foot forward, focus on teamwork, and ensure we execute our game plan effectively. The semi-final will be a tough match as it always is against Oilers, but I think the boys are ready, and we are well-prepared.”
His teammate, Andycole Omollo, acknowledged the long and grueling season but expressed optimism in the team’s depth and resilience.
“We have had a good season, finishing second, which has earned us a home semi-final. Injuries have been a challenge, with a few major ones here and there, but we’ve managed to cope because we have a strong squad. We are excited to take on Menengai Oilers, and with our home support behind us, we are ready for the battle.”
Both players emphasized the importance of fan support, urging KCB supporters to turn up in large numbers to cheer them on.
“We really appreciate Tusker’s sponsorship; it has come at the perfect time for us as clubs have been struggling. We encourage our fans to come in large numbers, support their favorite teams and players, and make the atmosphere electric,” added Sikutwa.
At the Kakamega Showground, defending champions Kabras RFC will be looking to continue their dominant run as they take on a resurgent and surprise semi finalists Nondescripts RFC.
Fredrick Shisia, Nondies’ player, shared the teams preparedness ahead of the semi final duel against KCB.
“According to me and our side, I believe that we’ve worked very hard to get to where we are. Every game has had its ups and downs, but we have pushed through, and that’s why we are here today. We know we are playing against Kabras, and we expect them to come hard at us, but we are prepared, and we know what they are going to bring. Our biggest strength is our team bonding and the way we push each other to show up for training and give our best every time we step on the pitch.”
As one of Kenya’s most historic rugby clubs, Nondescripts RFC has worked tirelessly to reclaim its place among the country’s top rugby teams, and Shisia is hopeful that their performance will be rewarded.
“We really appreciate Tusker for coming on board. They have seen how much effort we put in to reach this stage, and it means a lot to have that kind of support. It will be even more special if the best teams get the recognition they deserve.”
He also called on fans to rally behind the team.
“To our supporters, this has been a long journey, and you have been with us from the start. We encourage you to come out in numbers and support us because we will not let you down.”
With the semi-finals set to deliver high-intensity rugby action, Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) CEO Thomas Odundo expressed gratitude for Tusker’s sponsorship.
“The season has been long, with its fair share of challenges, but we have finally arrived at the most crucial stage. All the teams are prepared to put on a good show, and with partners like Tusker coming on board, we are confident that we will not only witness great rugby action but also create a fantastic experience for the fans.”