Embu 7s: Mean Machine joins top guns as KCB aim to extend dominance

The 2025 National Sevens Circuit will break new ground this weekend as it heads to Embu for the first time in history.

The Embu 7s, slated for Saturday 23 to Sunday 24 August at the ASK Showgrounds, Njukiiri, promises two days of action-packed rugby as the country’s top sides clash in the fourth leg of the circuit.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for more news

The county played host to the 2024 Embu 7s, which was not part of the official National Sevens Circuit, where Strathmore Leos, then guided by Kenya Sevens assistant coach Louis Kisia, successfully defended their title with a 19-5 win over Catholic Monks at Embu Stadium.

This year, however, the event joins the official KRU calendar after Embu RFC successfully bid to host the 2025 and 2026 editions.

Christie 7s champions KCB Rugby headline Pool A, where they will face Daystar Falcons, Mwamba RFC and tournament hosts Embu RFC.

The Bankers, winners of both the Driftwood and Christie 7s, have been relentless this season, reaching every final since the circuit began.

They will be keen to maintain that perfect record and add the Embu crown to their growing collection.

Christie 7s: KCB Rugby sink Menengai Oilers to clinch title

Daystar Falcons will look to replicate their Christie 7s heroics, where they stunned Kabras RFC and reached the quarterfinals.

Mwamba RFC, on the other hand, will be searching for consistency after fluctuating results across the first three legs, while hosts Embu RFC will relish the opportunity to test themselves against rugby elite.

Pool B has Strathmore Leos, Impala RFC, Kabras Sugar and Kabete Stallions.

The Leos carry fond memories of Embu, having lifted the title there last year. With their current fine form in the circuit, they enter the leg as strong contenders.

Kabras RFC, who faltered at Christie 7s after failing to defend their crown and missing out on the quarterfinals, will be out for redemption.

Why Kabras RFC have struggled in the opening legs of National 7s Circuit

Impala RFC, buoyed by their first-ever quarterfinal appearance at Christie 7s, will aim to build momentum, while Kabete Stallions return to Division One after clinching the Division Two title in Nairobi. Known for springing surprises, Stallions could once again upset the odds.

Menengai Oilers headline Pool C, alongside Nondescripts, Nakuru RFC and invited side Mean Machine.

The Oilers, who narrowly missed out on a Christie 7s final spot after losing in the semis, have grown stronger with each outing and will look to push further this time.

University of Nairobi’s Mean Machine, making their first Division One appearance this season, will want to prove they belong at the top level.

Nakuru RFC and Nondies, both eager to recover from underwhelming Christie 7s campaigns, will also be in the mix.

Pool D pits Kenya Harlequin RFC against Catholic Monks, MMUST and Zetech Oaks.

Zetech Oaks have impressed since rejoining Division One, steadily improving with each leg.

CUEA Monks, third-place finishers at Prinsloo 7s, will be looking to keep their momentum, while MMUST and Quins are still chasing their first finals appearance of the season.

The hosting of the Embu 7s marks a major milestone for Embu RFC and the county at large.

The leg, previously hosted by Kabras RFC in Kakamega, will now shift eastwards, opening a fresh chapter in the growth of sevens rugby across Kenya.

Embu Sevens gets major sponsorship boost