Kabras RFC coach on importance of cross-border Enterprise Cup quarterfinals

Kabras RFC head coach Carlos Katywa has explained the importance of the newly introduced cross-border quarterfinals in the Enterprise Cup.

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The South African tactician termed the matches a significant step towards elevating the standards of the game in the region.

The 2026 edition of the competition has been expanded to include teams from both Kenya and Uganda, injecting fresh competitiveness into one of the country’s oldest rugby tournaments.

The development has already sparked lively banter across social media, setting the tone for a thrilling knockout phase.

Kenyan giants Kabras RFC and KCB Rugby have already touched down in Kampala, where they are set to face Heathens RFC and Pirates RFC, respectively.

Back on home soil, Nondescripts RFC will host KCB Kobs, while Menengai Oilers take on Toyota Buffaloes at the ASK Showground in Nakuru. All quarterfinal fixtures are scheduled for Saturday, 21 March.

Cross-border battles headline 2026 Enterprise Cup quarterfinals

Speaking ahead of their clash in Kampala, Katywa expressed optimism about his team’s preparation and embraced the opportunity to compete in a different environment.

“Kampala is honestly one of the nicest places to come to; the vibes are great. We’re feeling well-rested now. We travelled early, leaving on Wednesday night and arriving Thursday morning, so the team is in a good place,” he said.

“It’s a lovely destination, the people are very welcoming, the food is great, so we’re just happy to be here."

Beyond the hospitality, the Kabras tactician believes the cross-border format introduces a new layer of competitiveness that Kenyan teams have long needed.

“It also brings a different dynamic in terms of competitiveness. We play against each other in Kenya year in, year out, so it’s refreshing and exciting for our players to experience a different kind of rivalry once or twice a year. It gives them a chance to gauge where they stand,” he added.

Katywa noted that facing unfamiliar opposition exposes players to new playing styles and conditions, offering valuable lessons that domestic competitions alone cannot provide.

“You might think you’re at the top of the food chain, but then you step into a different club setup in another country, not even at an international level, and realize it’s a whole different challenge. There are new cultures, different conditions, even altitude to deal with,” he said.

The Enterprise Cup boasts a rich history of regional participation, having previously featured teams from Uganda and Tanzania. Uganda’s now-defunct Kampala RFC famously dominated the competition between 1956 and 1970, lifting the trophy four times.

In the 2000s, Ugandan heavyweights such as Heathens, Kobs, and Pirates also featured prominently, with Kobs reaching the quarterfinals in 2008.

The revival of cross-border clashes at the knockout stage has therefore been widely welcomed as a move that will rekindle regional rivalries, and raise the overall quality of regional rugby.

“For us, it’s a great thing overall; a real adventure for rugby. It’s good for East African rugby, and ultimately, it’s beneficial for rugby across Africa as well,” Katywa offered.