KCB Rugby set for do-or-die clash against Uganda's Pirates in Enterprise Cup quarters

Former Kenya Cup champions KCB Rugby are bracing for a high-stakes showdown when they face off with Uganda Rugby Men's Premiership defending champions Pirates RFC in the quarterfinals of the Enterprise Cup slated for Saturday, 21 March at the Mutesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for more news

The Bankers have already set base in Kampala ahead of the do-or-die encounter.

The team, now under the tutelage of former Kenya Sevens star Jack Ojee, is carrying confidence from recent performances, but are fully aware of the challenge that awaits against a strong Pirates side on home soil.

KCB forwards coach Brian Nyikuli struck an optimistic tone, pointing to the positive atmosphere within the camp.

“We expect to win. The mood has been great in the camp for the past month. The boys are looking forward to it, and having a tour away rejuvenates them and renews their enthusiasm. I expect fireworks when we hit the ground,” he said.

The former South Coast Pirates tactician added that while the team is focused on the job, the trip also offers players a chance to unwind after duty.

“The fans and the boys have come to relax a bit and enjoy. So, we do our work first, play the game, then after that we can see what Kampala has for us,” he offered.

However, he acknowledged the magnitude of the task against last year’s winners.

“This Enterprise Cup fixture is really beneficial because we are playing Pirates, and they are the team that won last year. I have known their coach for a very long time, so I expect a tough match,” he said.

Cross-border battles headline 2026 Enterprise Cup quarterfinals

The tactician emphasized the need for discipline and execution, while also encouraging an expansive approach.

“For us, we will put our game plan in play, stick to it, and at the end of it all, play expansive rugby just to enjoy the pitch because the pitch we are playing on is very good even in wet weather conditions. It will also help in our preparation for the Kenya Cup playoff,” he averred.

Assistant coach Ojee echoed the need for caution despite KCB’s strong form.

SVNS 2: Shujaa, Lionesses eye Montevideo response as promotion race heats up

“We are coming off a strong performance against Daystar Falcons, and that gives us confidence, but knockout rugby is a different challenge. Pirates are a quality side, especially at home, and we are not underestimating the threat they pose,” Ojee said. “We have prepared well, and the boys understand what is at stake."

KCB will, however, have to navigate the crucial fixture without several key figures.

Head coach Andrew Amonde, alongside players Vincent Onyala, George Ooro, Samuel Asati, Floyd Wabwire, and Festus Shiasi, are away on national duty at the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series in South America.

In their absence, the spotlight will fall on a mix of emerging and experienced players, including Miheso Eric, Andy Cole Omolo, Tyson Maina, Emmanuel Silungi, Brian Wahinya, Elvis Olukusi, and Jenkins Kipruto, who will be expected to step up.