Enterprise Cup: Kabras Sugar eye Quins scalp as knockout action heats up

Kabras Sugar fly half Ntabeni Dukisa attempts a conversion on Novermber 14, 2024. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

Defending champions Kabras Sugar are bracing for a fierce battle as they host Kenya Harlequins in the Enterprise Cup quarterfinals at the Kakamega Showground.

The Sugarmen, who have been in impeccable form this season, are determined to continue their dominance in knockout rugby, with sights firmly set on retaining the title they clinched last year.

Their preparations have received a significant boost with the return of Ntabeni Dukisa, the influential utility back who was sidelined with an injury sustained during Kenya Simbas' preparations for the Elgon Cup last November.

Dukisa, a key figure in their Enterprise Cup and Kenya Cup triumphs last season, is expected to make an impact off the bench as he eases back into competition.

Adding to Kabras' arsenal is the return of Valerian Tendwa, who is set to make his first appearance since helping the side lift the 2023 Enterprise Cup.

Mathias Osimbo, who has been recovering from a leg injury, has also been handed a starting role, marking his full return to action after making a substitute appearance in the Kenya Cup against Blak Blad.

He will slot in at outside centre, pairing up with Walter Okoth, who takes the inside centre position.

Kabras will rely on a strong squad led by fly-half Erick Cantona and scrum-half Barry Young to dictate play, while Alfred Orege and Walter Okoth are expected to inject pace and flair in the backline.

The forwards, led by Edward Mwaura, Teddy Akala, and Emmanuel Otieno in the front row, will be tasked with ensuring physical dominance. Patrick Sabatia, Gabriel Adero, and Collins Indeche will provide the power in the back row as the Sugarmen look to outmuscle their opponents.

Kenya Harlequins, who secured their quarterfinal spot after overcoming Strathmore Leos, are well aware of the challenge ahead. Facing an unbeaten Kabras side in their fortress will be no easy task, but Quins will be hoping to rise to the occasion and cause an upset.

Elsewhere, KCB will welcome Catholic Monks to Ruaraka in a match that pits the experienced bankers against a Monks side eager to prove their mettle.

Menengai Oilers will take on Homeboyz at the Nakuru Showground in what promises to be an explosive encounter, while Nondescripts have already booked their place in the semifinals via a walkover after Coast Pirates failed to honour their fixture.

With the race for the Enterprise Cup heating up, all eyes will be on the defending champions as they take on Quins in what is expected to be a thrilling contest.

Can Kabras maintain their unbeaten run, or will Harlequins rise to the challenge and shake up the tournament? The battle lines are drawn, and knockout rugby is set to take centre stage.