Kenya Sevens ace Dennis Abukuse shares secret to consistency

Over the weekend, a tweet gained significant traction among rugby fans, suggesting that the Menengai Oilers were not firing on all cylinders without Dennis Abukuse in their lineup.

This is after the Oilers started their quarterfinal match against their cross-town rivals, Nakuru RFC, on a low note.

Nakuru started strong, with Felix Okoth scoring the opening try, followed by Javan Otieno's up-and-under kick, extending the lead to 12-0.

Abukuse came off the bench to give the Oilers their first lead, but Philip Okeyo levelled the score for Nakuru. Abukuse then sealed the win with a decisive final try to see the Oilers win 24-17.

This is not the first time Abukuse has demonstrated his ability to change the course of a match singlehandedly. Whether in the 15s or 7s version, the Bungoma High School alumnus' presence on the field often turns the tide in favour of his side.

He was part of the Kenya Sevens team that finished ninth in the Olympics. He was also in the Morans team that travelled to Mauritius for the Africa Men’s Sevens tournament before joining Shujaa just in time for the Olympics.

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When he came back to Oilers, his presence was immediately felt.

He scored 10 tries during the Dala 7s to be named in the impact team of the tournament with 57 points. His fine form continued during Kabeberi 7s when he scored nine tries. That performance elevated him to the impact player of the tournament.

However, he missed the Driftwood tournament in Mombasa through a thigh injury.

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He would then emerge as the top try scorer at the Prinsloo 7s after touching down nine times.

Abukuse had an outstanding National Sevens Circuit despite his side being eliminated by Strathmore Leos (17-12) in sudden death in the semifinal stage.

He won the third Impact Player of the season, having topped the Tisini stats tracker.

“I take recovery seriously. Apart from the time off we are given by the team and the national team, I spare some time for recovery. Sometimes I go for hydrotherapy like swimming. That I mostly do alone even if it means paying for myself,” he told Mozzart Sport.

One of his goals is to challenge the perception that rugby is solely a physical game. He advocates for a more balanced view and hopes to inspire players to develop their game past the physical level.

“I love playing rugby because I want to change this norm. Rugby is often seen as a physical sport, but I want to encourage people to include the mental aspect. Sometimes people see me on the pitch and think that I am tired, but I am always studying the game,” he asserted.

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Rugby holds a central place in Abukuse's life, having significantly shaped his educational journey. Thanks to his rugby skills, he was able to study both in high school and campus through a scholarship. He attended Bungoma High School before studying at Laikipia University. This unique opportunity fuels his determination to excel.

“Rugby is my life. When I am alone at home, or even when travelling, I am always watching the game. I not only watch international matches but also local ones. I am inspired by some of the great people in the game like Vincent Onyala, Willy Ambaka, Collins Injera, and Humprey Kayange. Rugby is my DNA now,” he concluded.

Menengai Oilers ended the circuit in fourth position with 84 points, 26 points shy of log leaders Kenya Harlequin.