KCB Elvis Olukusi in action during a past Kenya Cup match at the CUEA Grounds. Washington Onyango

KCB Elvis Olukusi in action during a past Kenya Cup match at the CUEA Grounds. [Washington Onyango]

The Kenya Cup, the pinnacle of Kenyan club rugby, returns this Saturday following the festive season hiatus, with KCB RFC gearing up for what promises to be a gripping encounter against Mwamba RFC.

The match, slated for the fourth round of the current season, is set to take place at the RFUEA Grounds, a venue synonymous with high-octane rugby action.

KCB RFC, who boast eight Kenya Cup championships, have had a sterling start to the 2023/2024 season, with three wins from as many games, placing them second in the standings just behind leaders Kabras Sugar.

The bankers have accrued 15 points, a testament to their solid performances and a clear indicator of their intention to contest for the top spot fervently.

The team's head coach, Curtis Olago, expressed his intent to maintain their winning momentum.

"We intend to keep the momentum going after a good start to the season. We expect a good show from Mwamba; therefore, we will be out to defend the badge and to play our game," Olago stated.

The coach has also emphasized the team's preparedness, citing effective training sessions since the players returned from the festive break.

Coach Olago extended an invitation to the club's supporters to turn up in numbers and provide the backing that could prove crucial in this high-stakes match.

"The boys have been training well after resuming from the festive holidays. I would like to call upon our supporters to turn up in large numbers to rally behind the team," he added.

Despite the competitive nature of the Kenya Cup, KCB opted for a relatively quiet January transfer window, securing only Horus Alela from Shamas Rugby and loaning him out to Kenyatta University's Blak Blad. This strategic decision reflects confidence in the current squad's capabilities and depth.

"Our players have shown great determination and hard work since we started this new campaign. I am optimistic that we will clinch the title at the end of the season," Olago remarked, highlighting the team's resilience and dedication.

However, the bankers will be without the services of key players Vincent Onyala, Samuel Asati, and Festus Shiasi, who have been called up to represent Shujaa in the Challenger series set to commence in Dubai. Their absence will test the depth and adaptability of the team as they face a robust Mwamba side.