3 reasons why Kenya Sevens' John Okoth is eagerly anticipating Indian rugby venture

Kenya Sevens centre John Okoth is counting down the days until he embarks on a new chapter in his rugby journey after he was named among the players set to feature in the second season of India's Rugby Premier League (RPL), slated for Tuesday, 16, to Sunday, 28 June, at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad.

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Okoth is among three new Kenyan recruits selected for the 2026 edition of the competition alongside Nygel Amaitsa and Samuel Asati. The trio will join the Delhi Redz, where they will link up with fellow Kenyan speedster Patrick Odongo, who earned a contract extension after impressing during the inaugural season.

For Okoth, however, the opportunity goes far beyond playing rugby. The Kenya Sevens ace sees the venture as a chance to showcase Kenyan talent, experience a different culture, and grow both professionally and personally.

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The biggest motivation for Okoth is the opportunity to represent Kenya and demonstrate the quality of rugby talent the country continues to produce.

"It is a great opportunity for the few Kenyans who have been selected to travel to India. For us, it is not just about the trip; it is a chance to showcase our talent, represent our country, and share the rich rugby culture that Kenya is known for.

We have so much talent in Kenya, and this platform allows us to demonstrate what we can do on an international stage," Okoth told Mozzart Sport.

The Rugby Premier League has rapidly established itself as one of the most exciting developments in sevens rugby. The 2025 edition marked history as the world's first franchise-based rugby sevens competition, attracting some of the biggest stars from the HSBC SVNS Series.

With international audiences expected to follow the tournament closely, Okoth believes the league offers Kenyan players a valuable platform to market themselves while enhancing the country's reputation as a rugby powerhouse.

While rugby remains the primary focus, Okoth is equally excited about immersing himself in Indian culture.

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The tournament will once again bring together players from various parts of the world, giving participants an opportunity to interact with different cultures and lifestyles.

"Beyond rugby, it is also a golden chance to visit Mumbai, experience a different environment, and learn more about Indian culture. I am genuinely excited about the journey and cannot wait to get there and showcase my abilities while representing Kenya with pride," he said.

India's rich heritage, diverse traditions, and passionate sporting culture have made the country an increasingly attractive destination for international athletes. For Okoth, the chance to explore a completely different environment is one of the highlights of the upcoming trip.

The Kenya Sevens ace is also looking forward to personal growth through the experience, particularly by interacting with local communities and embracing different aspects of Indian life.

"I am particularly looking forward to learning more about Indian music, trying their different foods, and interacting with the people. I have always admired India's vibrant culture, and I find their traditional clothing very impressive. I believe the experience will help me grow both as an athlete and as a person," he revealed.

Such opportunities have become increasingly important for professional athletes, allowing them to broaden their perspectives while building relationships beyond the sport itself.

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Okoth's arrival further strengthens Kenya's representation in the competition. He will compete alongside Odongo, Amaitsa, and Asati at the Delhi Redz. Kenya Sevens forward Kevin Wekesa will return for a second season with the Hyderabad Heroes after helping the side secure a third-place finish during the inaugural campaign.

The Delhi Redz, coached by New Zealand sevens legend Tomasi Cama, enjoyed a strong debut season before falling 41-0 to the Chennai Bulls in the final. Odongo was among their standout performers and will now be joined by three fellow Kenyans as the franchise seeks to go one step further.