Rugby: Impala Floodlit to return next month after two years

Kenya Commercial Bank celebrate after beating host Impala Saracens in the Floodlit Final held at Impala Club on Saturday Oct 27, 2018. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

The 38th edition of the Impala Floodlit rugby tournament will be held next month on October 29 to November 12 at the Impala Club, Nairobi.

The tournament which has traditionally been played as the curtain raiser for the rugby fifteens season, will make a return after a two-year hiatus occasioned by the Covid-19 Pandemic.

While making the announcement, Impala RFC Chairman, Charles Ngovi said this years edition will feature 22 teams.

"We are excited to announce the return of the Impala Floodlit, after a two-year absence," said Ngoyi.

"This year's edition will feature a total of 22 teams, battling in three categories, ladies, universities and clubs. The University and Clubs categories will have eight teams each drawn from the Kenya Cup, Championship and Nationwide leagues, while the ladies' category will have six teams."

Tournament Director Daniel Ndaba added that preparations of the tournament are underway as they target to host a world-class caliber championship.

"With a month to go, our preparations are in top gear to deliver a world class tournament and experience to the fans, players and our partners."

"We will have a top-flight line up of teams that will be announced to you during the tournament draw on 21st of October, we are also in advanced discussions with our partners to ensure that we deliver a world class experience both on and off the pitch."

KCB are the defending champions of the tournament.