Postponements, walkovers galore as KRU Championship kicks off

The 2025/26 Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Championship season gets underway on Saturday, 22 November across various venues in the country.

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However, the campaign begins on a shaky note, with only four of the six scheduled fixtures set to be played. As of the time of publication, Mozzart Sport confirmed that one walkover had already been issued, and one match postponed.

South Coast Pirates vs Kisii RFC

This fixture became the first casualty of the opening weekend. Newly promoted Kisii RFC were set to travel to Diani, Kwale County for their Championship debut against former Kenya Cup side South Coast Pirates.

However, both clubs mutually agreed to postpone the match to a later date.

The Pirates announced that the clash will now be played on either Saturday, 13 December or Saturday, 7 February, with the confirmed date to be communicated once logistics are finalised.

Despite the shift, the Pirates maintain focus.

“We respect Kisii RFC’s request and the need to adjust the schedule. Our boys are prepared, and we’ll be ready whenever the match is played,” the club said.

The team will continue training as they await the final fixture date.

CUEA Monks vs Western Bulls

Former Kenya Cup side Western Bulls have started the season on a difficult note, issuing a walkover to the Catholic University of East Africa (CUEA) Monks.

Once a formidable outfit, the Bulls appear to be on their last legs as financial troubles continue to weigh them down.

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The Kakamega-based club, burdened by financial constraints, found the away trip to Nairobi too costly to honor.

They will now begin their Championship campaign on Saturday, 29 August, with a home match against South Coast Pirates.

Mwamba RFC vs NYS Spades

The Goan Institute in Pangani will host a fascinating clash between two Championship debutants.

Mwamba RFC, relegated from the Kenya Cup last season, face NYS Spades, who secured promotion from the Nationwide league. Mwamba have already expressed their ambition to make an immediate return to the top tier, bolstered by an influx of young talent.

Under the guidance of former Kenya 7s tactician Paul Murunga, Kulabu will be eager to collect maximum points. The match will be curtain-raised by a tie between Northern Suburbs and Mwamba’s youth side.

Zetech Oaks vs USIU Martials

The Oaks narrowly missed out on Kenya Cup promotion last season after falling to MMUST Rugby in the semifinals. Having secured a Championship slot at the end of the 2023/24 season, they now look determined to go one better.

They face fellow student side USIU Martials, who are chasing consistency after an up-and-down run last season. This clash will be a significant first step for both sides as they map their promotion ambitions.

JKUAT Cougars vs Mombasa RFC

Mombasa RFC travel to Nairobi for a tricky opener against Impala Floodlights varsity champions JKUAT Cougars.

Riding the momentum from their Floodies triumph and buoyed by home advantage, the Cougars will view this as a must-win outing.

Mombasa RFC, meanwhile, come into the match after a competitive preseason friendly against South Coast Pirates on 1 November at the Seacrest Grounds, where they narrowly lost 21–19.

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2025/26 KRU Championship Week 1

Mwamba vs NYS Spades

3:00 pm Goan Institute

SC Pirates vs Kisii RFC (Postponed)

3:00 pm Seacrest, Diani

CUEA Monks vs Western Bulls (Walkover)

3:00 pm CUEA Pavillion

Zetech Oaks vs USIU Martials

3:00 pm Zetech, Mang’u Campus

JKUAT Cougars vs Mombasa RFC

3:00 pm JKUAT Juja

Homeboyz RFC vs Mean Machine

1:00 pm RFUEA Ground