KCB ready for Oilers test in Kenya Cup encounter

Rugby
By Washington Onyango | Feb 22, 2025
KCB Rugby's Steve Wamai jumps past Mwamba RFC's Edwin Nyachio during The 2024/25 Kenya Cup season Campaign at RFUEA Ground on Saturday, Jan 11, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Eight-time Kenya Cup champions KCB RFC are gearing up for a crunch clash against nemesis Menengai Oilers today at the KCB Sports Club, Ruaraka.

With three matches left to play in the regular season before the playoffs, the bankers are on course to secure a home semi-final.

As it stands, KCB is second in the table with 40 points, Kabras sits top with a superior points difference.

Speaking during a training session ahead of the fixture at the den, KCB RFC head coach Oliver Mang'eni said they are ready to dance.

"We've put in the hard work, and the team is fully focused on delivering a strong performance. The players are motivated, and we're ready to take on the challenge ahead. We expect a tough battle so we must be ready in all departments."

KCB RFC will have to navigate their upcoming fixture without one of their key players, Ian Omoke. A prolific figure in head coach Oliver Mang'eni's squad, Omoke has been sidelined due to a tibial fracture injury.

The dynamic player underwent surgery in late January and is still on the road to recovery, making him unavailable for selection.

Other players including Trevor Odawa, Oscar Simiyu, Nelson Nyandat, Dennis Waithaka and Gabriel Namusasi are all in their rehabilitation phase following injuries and will not play against the Oilers.

Mang'eni is expected to start Wilhite Mususi, Nick Okullo, Andy Cole Omollo, Jacob Ojee, Emmanuel Opondo.

Former Oilers players Davies Nyaundi, Erick Miheso, and Tyson Maina are also expected to feature for the Ruaraka-based side.

The bankers will also miss the services of Floyd Wabwire, Samuel Asati, and Vincent Onyala who joined the national team Shujaa for the upcoming Vancouver Sevens in Canada.

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