KCB out to end Kabras’ 50-match unbeaten run as Kenya Cup enters decisive stage

One of the fiercest rivalries in Kenyan rugby will take center stage this weekend as KCB Rugby host Kabras RFC at the KCB Sports Club in Ruaraka on Saturday, 7 March, in a clash that could shape the race for the Kenya Cup title.

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With only two rounds remaining before the playoffs, the high-stakes encounter pits second-placed KCB against table leaders Kabras in what promises to be a decisive battle at the top of the standings.

KCB head into the fixture on 43 points, and will be determined to protect their unbeaten run this season, while also strengthening their chances of securing a home semi-final. Their opponents Kabras, arrive in Nairobi riding on a historic milestone after extending their unbeaten run in the 15s game to 50 matches last weekend.

The Sugarmen currently top the table with 45 points after winning all their nine matches this season, collecting a bonus point in each of those victories to underline their dominance.

Historic rivalry

The rivalry between the two sides has grown into one of the most compelling matchups in the Kenya Cup over the past decade.

Since 2014, the teams have faced each other 19 times in the competition, including several finals. KCB hold the upper hand historically with 11 wins, while Kabras have recorded seven victories and one draw.

KCB dominated the early years of the rivalry, winning multiple encounters and Kenya Cup finals between 2015 and 2018. However, Kabras have increasingly closed the gap in recent seasons, including memorable wins in the 2023 final and last year’s meeting in Kakamega.

Their most recent encounter saw Kabras defeat the Bankers 25-17, further intensifying the rivalry heading into this weekend’s showdown.

Onyala returns for KCB

KCB have made just one change to their matchday squad, recalling former Kenya Sevens captain Vincent Onyala to start on the right wing.

His inclusion adds experience and pace to a backline that otherwise remains unchanged as the Bankers look to challenge the defending champions.

The forward pack will once again feature Nick Okullo, Fidel Maina, and Wilhite Mususi in the front row, with John Aswani and Andycole Omollo partnering in the second row.

Elvis Olukusi, George Ooro, and Sheldon Kahi form the back row that will be tasked with matching Kabras’ physicality in the forwards.

Samuel Asati continues at scrum-half, and will partner fly-half Brian Wahinya, whose tactical kicking and game management could prove crucial in controlling territory.

Captain Bob Muhati leads the midfield from inside centre alongside Richel Wangila, while Festus Shiasi occupies the left wing. Onyala starts on the right wing with Isaac Njoroge completing the back three at fullback.

On the bench, KCB have named Wilfred Waswa, Thomas Okidia, Eric Miheso, Winston Macharia, Churchill Otieno, Emmanuel Opondo, Eugene Omondi, and Stephen Osumba as impact options.

Kabras hit by injuries

Kabras had not released their squad at the time of writing, but the defending champions will travel to Nairobi without several key players.

Among those missing are George Nyambua, Brian Tanga, Ntabenu Dukisa, Jone Kubu, William Mwanji, Jackson Siketi, and Rayvon Ambale.

Blow for Kabras RFC as South African utility back retires

Despite the injury setbacks, Kabras head coach Carlos Kyatwa expects a fiercely contested encounter.

“It’s going to be fire. Let me tell you, it’s not going to be easy. They’re currently playing some really fantastic rugby. They still have their superstars, and they still have fresh legs, so we will take it a game at a time,” Kyatwa said.

On the absence of key players, Kyatwa said the situation presents an opportunity for younger players to step up.

“There’s nothing you can do about fate. It’s God’s plan, and also about these other youngsters. They need to put their hands up now and be counted among the good and great players of this country because this is the top of the top,” he continued.

Kabras head coach sounds warning of impeding decline despite 50 consecutive victories

Other key fixtures

Elsewhere, Menengai Oilers will be looking to bounce back from their first defeat of the season when they host MMUST RFC at the ASK Showground in Nakuru.

Nondescripts RFC face Daystar Falcons at Ngong Racecourse, as the hosts fight to keep their playoff hopes alive. Nondies currently sit ninth with 14 points despite having a game in hand.

KU Blak Blad welcome Impala RFC to Kenyatta University in a clash that could shape the playoff picture, while Kenya Harlequin host Kisumu RFC at the RFUEA Grounds with the visitors hoping to climb from the bottom of the table.

At the Nakuru Athletics Club, Nakuru RFC will take on Strathmore Leos as they attempt to edge closer to the playoff places, while the Leos look to solidify their hold on fourth position.

Kenya Cup Week 10 Fixtures

Menengai Oilers vs MMUST RFC – ASK Showground, Nakuru

KCB Rugby vs Kabras Sugar – KCB Sports Club, Ruaraka

Nondescripts vs Daystar Falcons – Ngong Racecourse

KU Blak Blad vs Impala RFC – Kenyatta University

Kenya Harlequin vs Kisumu RFC – RFUEA Grounds

Nakuru RFC vs Strathmore Leos – Nakuru Athletics Club

All matches kick off at 4:00 p.m. across the various venues.