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KCB Rugby claim Kenya Cup bronze after Nondies forfeit, focus shifts to Eric Shirley Shield final

Reading Time: 3min | Sat. 05.04.25. | 13:57

With the Kenya Cup curtain falling quietly on their season, the spotlight now shifts to the Eric Shirley Shield (ESS) final.

KCB Rugby have officially secured third place in the 2024/25 Kenya Cup season without stepping onto the pitch, following a walkover from Nondescripts RFC in the scheduled bronze playoff match on Saturday, April 5, at the KCB Sports Club in Ruaraka.

The Bankers, who fell to Menengai Oilers in the semi-finals, were set to face Nondies in a bid to end their campaign on a high note. However, Nondies' forfeiture handed KCB an automatic win, sealing a bronze medal finish for the side.

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Despite the consolation, the result means KCB's wait for a major Kenya Cup title now extends to a fourth consecutive season—a growing concern for the ambitious side once known for its dominance.

“We settle for bronze this Kenya Cup season and would like to thank the lion-hearted family, the Pure Greens, for the love, support, and encouragement,” KCB Rugby shared in a social media post.

With the Kenya Cup curtain falling quietly on their season, the spotlight now shifts to the Eric Shirley Shield (ESS) final. This highly anticipated clash between KCB’s second-string side and Menengai Oilers’ ESS outfit will replace the Kenya Cup third-place match in Saturday’s fixture lineup.

The final is scheduled to kick off at 3:00 p.m. at KCB Sports Club, with both teams eyeing silverware to cap off their seasons.

KCB are aiming for their third consecutive ESS title since the league resumed post-COVID-19, while Oilers will be making their maiden appearance in the ESS final.

The Oilers booked their slot after edging out Kabras RFC 25-20 in a thrilling semi-final at the Nakuru ASK Grounds. KCB, meanwhile, defeated Kenya Harlequin 18-10 at home to earn their place in the final.

KCB line-up:

The Bankers’ front row features Thomas Okidia, Wilfred Waswa, and captain Nelson Nyandat. Obungu Owade and Winston Macharia complete the tight five in the second row.

In the back row, Reagan Juma starts at blindside flanker, Felix Makokha at openside, and Horus Alela at number eight.

Ishmael Gorio takes the scrum-half role, pairing with fly-half Smith Muhoya.

In midfield, Bramwel Kilwake partners with vice-captain Levy Amunga. Dominic Sande and Eugene Omondi take up the wings, with Lionel Ajeliti at fullback.

Menengai Oilers line-up:

Kenya Simbas winger Beldad Ogeta returns from suspension to start on the left wing, joining Alvin Khavoli and Eric Ogutu in the back three.

Anthony Owino and Stephen Arunga pair up in midfield, while Collins Okoth and Tony Oketch start at scrum-half and fly-half, respectively.

Eric Omanga leads the pack from number eight, flanked by Paywick Munoko and Calvin Malewa. Eugene Etale and Argwings Owino slot into the second row, while the front row comprises Byron Cornel, Reuben Njoroge, and Bruce Endovo.



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KCB RFCKenya CupNondescriptNondescripts RFC

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