The fifth leg of the 2024 National Sevens Circuit, Driftwood Sevens, is set to kick off this Saturday at the Mombasa Sports Club, with defending champions Kabras Sugar RFC determined to retain their crown.
Kabras currently sit second in the national standings with 73 points, despite an underwhelming finish at the Kabeberi Sevens two weeks ago, where they failed to reach the semifinals.
In a bid to reclaim their title, Kabras find themselves in a challenging Group C, often dubbed the "pool of death," alongside Kenya Harlequin, Nakuru RFC, and Mwamba RFC.
Kenya Harlequin, the most successful team in Driftwood Sevens history with 12 titles, pose a major challenge in Group C. They have been consistent throughout the season, reaching the semifinals in every leg so far. Mwamba, with six titles, and Nakuru RFC, add further intensity to the group.
Top seeds KCB Rugby, fresh off their dominant 29-7 victory over Menengai Oilers at Kabeberi, will lead Group A. The bankers, aiming for their fourth Driftwood Sevens title, will face MMUST, KU Blak Blad, and hosts Mombasa Sports Club.
Menengai Oilers, last year’s finalists, head Group B alongside Daystar Falcons, Nondies, and invited side TUM Marines. Oilers will look to bounce back after their Kabeberi final defeat to KCB.
Group D features Catholic Monks, Strathmore Leos, Kabete Stallions, and Zetech University, adding a mix of varsity talent to the fray.
Kabras Sugar will look to repeat their 2023 heroics, where they narrowly edged out Menengai Oilers 10-7 in the final.
The competition promises thrilling action as teams vie for the coveted Driftwood Sevens title, with all eyes on who will emerge victorious this weekend.
Driftwood Sevens pools
Group AKCB RugbyMMUSTKU BlakBladMombasa Sports Club
Group BMenengai OilersDaystar FalconsNondiesTUM Marines
Group CKenya HarlequinKabras Sugar RugbyNakuru RFCMwamba RFC
Group DCatholic MonksStrathmore LeosKabete Stallions RugbyZetech University