Crunch moment as Kabras and KCB fight for National Sevens Circuit title

Kabras Sugar's Dan Angwech tackling Jacob Ojee during Enterprise Cup 2023 against KCB at RFUEA. April 15, 2023. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

In the heart of Kenya's rugby world, fierce competition has been brewing, captivating fans and players alike.

Kabras Sugar RFC and KCB Rugby are once again locked in a heated battle for the coveted 2023 National Sevens Circuit title, and the excitement has reached fever pitch as the final leg of the series approaches.

This weekend, the rugby fraternity will turn its attention to the Kabeberi Sevens season ender-set to be hosted by Mwamba RFC at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi this weekend.

The stakes could not be higher as Kabras currently leads the race with 92 points, just one point ahead of the bankers. 

With only one leg left in the series, every try, every tackle, and every sprint down the pitch could decide whether the title will remain in Nairobi or go to Kakamega.

Kabras, guided by coach Felix Ayange, are leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of the title.

Ayange, a former Kenya Sevens international, knows what it takes to succeed in the fast-paced world of sevens rugby. His strategic insights and ability to motivate his players have been instrumental in the millers' remarkable journey this season.

In a recent interview, Ayange outlined the team's plans to ensure they maintain their lead and reclaim the National Sevens Circuit title they last won six years ago.

"We have worked tirelessly throughout the season to build a strong, cohesive unit. Our focus has been on maintaining our performance levels, match after match, and minimising errors. In sevens rugby, one mistake can be the difference between winning and losing," said Ayange.

Ayange also stressed the significance of mental resilience and adaptability, saying: "The Kabeberi Sevens will present its unique challenges, but we are prepared to adapt our game to suit the conditions and opposition. Our players are physically and mentally prepared for this final push."

But his KCB counterpart Andrew Amonde is eager to spoil the party for Kabras. 

Amonde, himself a legendary figure in Kenyan rugby and having played with Ayange in the national team, is strongly aware of the task lying ahead.

He has warned his team against complacency.

"We are well aware of the one-point difference, and it adds to the excitement of the series. Our primary goal is to win the Kabeberi Sevens, which will, in turn, put us in a strong position to clinch the overall title. Our players are in top form, and we believe in our ability to perform under pressure," said the former Shujaa captain.

Meanwhile, Kabras Sugar will renew its rivalry with Kabeberi Sevens hosts Mwamba RFC at RFUEA Grounds.

Mwamba, who finished third at the inaugural Tisap Sevens, are Group C alongside Kabras, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) and Daystar Falcons.

Tisap 7s champions Nondies RFC will square it out with Kenyatta University’s Blak Blad, Kenya Harlequins, and Tessen Warriors in Group A.

Tessen Warriors will be making their maiden NSC appearance while Blak Blad will be looking to build on their performance and go past the quarterfinals stage.

Strathmore Leos will compete against Kisumu RFC, Nakuru RFC, and Impala RFC in Group B.

Following two final appearances in the Christie 7s and Tisap 7s, Strathmore Leos will be vying for the championship. Kisumu will be attempting to end the curse because they have also failed to get past the quarterfinal stage.

It will be an acid test for the freshly promoted Moi University Arsonists who find themselves alongside Menengai Oilers, KCB Rugby, and Catholic Monks in Group D.

The Arsonists were promoted to Division II thanks to a strong performance at home during Tisap 7s, where they fell to USIU 21-19 in the Division II championship game.