Kabras RFC explain player's refusal to shake KRU Chairperson's hand before Prinsloo 7s final

Kabras RFC have issued a statement explaining the circumstances surrounding Fredrick Wangila's decision not to shake hands with Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Chairperson Harriet Okatch before the Prinsloo 7s Cup final in Nakuru.

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The incident occurred during the pre-match pleasantries before Sunday's final at the Nakuru Athletics Club. While Wangila's teammates greeted Okatch with handshakes, the Kabras player instead placed his hand on his chest before proceeding to greet the rest of the dignitaries in the lineup.

The moment quickly circulated on social media, with many fans questioning why Wangila had declined to shake the KRU chairperson's hand.

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In a statement released after the incident, Kabras clarified that Wangila's actions were motivated by his religious beliefs and were not intended as a sign of disrespect.

"We have noted the concerns arising from an interaction involving our player, Fredrick Wangila, before the Prinsloo 7s final in Nakuru," the club said.

"Fredrick's actions were not intended to show disrespect to the Kenya Rugby Union Chairlady or anyone present. As a practicing Muslim, he was observing a period of prayer and religious devotion during which his faith does not permit physical contact with women."

The club added that it regretted any misunderstanding caused by the incident.

"We regret any misunderstanding or unintended offence caused and reaffirm our utmost respect for the Kenya Rugby Union and all stakeholders. We remain committed to promoting mutual respect, understanding, and unity within the rugby community. We appreciate everyone's understanding and continued support."

The clarification came after Kabras fell 19-12 to KCB Rugby in the Prinsloo 7s final, as the Bankers ended a nine-year wait for the title.

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Kabras made the brighter start, recovering the opening kickoff before Mike Lukusi capitalised on a loose ball to score the opening try for a 5-0 lead.

KCB responded almost immediately through George Ooro, who sliced through the defence after selling a superb dummy. Brian Wahinya added the conversion to put the Bankers ahead 7-5.

The momentum shifted further in KCB's favour when Kabras' Jackson Siketi was shown a yellow card. With the numerical advantage, Elvis Lukusi crossed over to extend KCB's lead to 12-5.

Just before halftime, Vincent Onyala intercepted a Kabras pass and raced under the posts for KCB's third try. Wahinya converted to hand the Andrew Amonde-coached side a commanding 19-5 advantage at the break.

Kabras mounted a spirited fightback after the restart. Derrick Ashiundu collected a loose ball before setting up Brian Mutua, who raced under the posts for a converted try to reduce the deficit to 19-12.

The Sugarmen dominated possession during the closing stages and piled pressure on the KCB defence, but the Bankers stood firm to repel repeated attacks and seal a memorable victory, securing their first Prinsloo 7s title since 2017.