Former Kenya Simbas captain Brian Nyikuli outlines changes in local rugby
.jpg)
Reading Time: 3min | Wed. 27.11.24. | 09:02
Today, Nyikuli serves as the South Coast Pirates forwards specialist where he continues to contribute his experience and insights to nurture young talent
Former Kenya men's national rugby 15s captain Brian Nyikuli has explained some of the changes in the local rugby scene compared to his playing days.
The Kakamega High School alumnus hung his boots in December 2021 after more than a decade in the scene. He has since taken up coaching in several clubs in the country.
Mozzart Sport caught up with the legendary player who has seen it all from the days of basic drills to the modern, data-driven game. Nyikuli highlighted significant shifts in conditioning, game analysis, and overall professionalism.
“During our time, we did not have proper conditioning. We would come, do sit-ups, and press-ups, and hope it would take us further. But now, there’s proper conditioning.
This sport, I do not think you can play if you are not conditioned,” he started.
He went on to cite examples of Kenya Simbas players like Davies Chenge, and Wilhite Mususi who combine size and speed to dominate the pitch.
“They are massive, and they even run at 100kp/h. That is what even we at Pirates are trying to do; condition the guys,” he said.
Nyikuli further noted a sharp turn toward data, analysis, and sports science.
“Today, there is more analysis. For instance, I did my homework against KCB and knew where to counter them: in the scrums and rucks,” he explained.
His preparation for a match involves studying opponents' past matches to understand their strengths and weaknesses.
“You cannot just train people for the sake of it; you have to let them know what to expect and how to counter it. We even bring in specialists, like nutritionists, to ensure players are performing at their peak.”
Nyikuli went on to explain the critical role nutrition plays in modern rugby, noting that it has become an essential aspect of player performance and recovery.
“What you eat directly affects your strength, endurance, and ability to recover after matches. Proper nutrition ensures players are not only physically prepared but also mentally sharp to handle the demands of the game,” he said.
Reflecting on the South Coast Pirates’ Kenya Cup opener against KCB, Nyikuli admitted that his side fell short tactically.
“They did not defeat us in the rucks and defensive attacks. We realized too late that KCB is very vulnerable in the rucks. When we started attacking, they began knocking balls.
If we had maintained that pressure, the score wouldn’t have been that bad,” he noted.
Looking ahead, he anticipates a different challenge against Kenya Cup defending champions Kabras RFC. They will welcome the Sugarmen on Saturday 29 November at the Seacrest Grounds in Diani, Kwale County.
“Kabras brings intensity and plays with more force, while KCB is more expansive, attacking wide. It’s about understanding those dynamics and preparing accordingly,” he concluded.
The Kakamega School alumnus had an illustrious career, captaining the Kenya Simbas from 2014 to 2017. He represented top clubs like Homeboyz, Kenya Harlequin, Impala, and Strathmore Leos.
After stints with several top clubs, he made his debut for KCB in 2017, where he ended his career. He retired in December 2021.
Today, Nyikuli serves as the South Coast Pirates forwards specialist where he continues to contribute his experience and insights to nurture young talent.
