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Recap on 2024 National Sevens Circuit that saw Quins emerge champions as Kabras faltered
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Reading Time: 4min | Tue. 31.12.24. | 10:56
Mozzart Sport delves deeper into the stories and performances that made this year’s edition unforgettable
The 2024 National 7s Circuit delivered a thrilling blend of competitiveness and class, cementing its reputation as a premier rugby showcase.
Kenya Harlequin emerged as champions, capping off an electrifying season, while debutants Stallions impressed with their spirited performances.
Kabras RFC once again came agonizingly close but failed to clinch the title, adding to the drama of the season.
From high-stakes clashes to standout displays, the circuit had all the ingredients of rugby excellence.
Mozzart Sport delves deeper into the stories and performances that made this year’s edition unforgettable.
Kenya Harlequin won National 7s Circuit
Quins won the 2024 title with 110 points, joining their Nairobi neighbors—Impala, Mwamba RFC, and KCB Rugby—as one of the most successful teams in the circuit.
It also marked their fourth overall title, adding to titles earned in 2005, 2006, and 2012.
They started the circuit with a second-place finish during their home tournament; Christie 7s after a 19-12 loss to Kabras. They would bounce back to winning ways after seeing off KCB Rugby 17-12 during sudden death in the Kakamega Ingo 7s.
They went on to finish third during Dala 7s before clinching a similar position during Kabeberi 7s. They would then defeat KCB Rugby 15-12 to win the Driftwood 7s. A fifth-place finish at the Prinsloo 7s capped off their impressive season.
KCB Rugby failed to defend their title
KCB Rugby's quest to defend their National 7s Circuit title ended in disappointment, with the Bankers retaining only their Christie 7s crown.
Their title defense remained alive until the Prinsloo 7s, where their failure to qualify for the quarterfinal stage dashed their hopes.
Earlier in the season, KCB had come agonizingly close to victory at both the Kakamega Ingo 7s and Driftwood 7s but fell short in the finals, losing to Kenya Harlequin on both occasions.
Despite flashes of brilliance, the Bankers could not replicate their previous dominance across the circuit.
Ingo 7s lived up to billing
The newly introduced Kakamega Ingo 7s, held from August 3-4 in Kakamega, delivered an electrifying experience that lived up to its billing.
Replacing the Tisap 7s, which had been marred by organizational issues and fan complaints, the event marked a fresh chapter for the National 7s Circuit.
Initially dubbed the KRU 7s, it was later renamed Kakamega Ingo 7s after Kabras RFC secured the hosting rights.
The tournament did not disappoint, as Kenya Harlequin clinched the title while the hosts Kabras RFC bowed out at the quarterfinal stage after losing to KCB Rugby.
A vibrant turnout of fans added to the atmosphere, making this leg one to remember.
Ladies category in three legs
The 2024 National 7s Circuit marked a significant milestone with the introduction of a ladies' category in three legs: Kabeberi, Christie, and Ingo 7s.
Impala RFC, the dominant force in the women's competition, extended their lead at the top of the standings by six points after a stellar performance at the Kabeberi 7s, where they emerged victorious.
Building on their championship win at the Christie 7s, the Gazelles accumulated an impressive 44 points across the two rounds.
The Ingo 7s also featured a ladies' category, with Shamberere putting on a commanding display to defeat Black Rock RFC 17-5 in the final.
Kabras fall short again
Kabras RFC once again fell agonizingly short of clinching the National 7s Circuit title, mirroring their near-miss in 2023 when they lost out to KCB Rugby.
This year, Kabras showcased impressive consistency, heading into the final leg, Prinsloo 7s, with 88 points and a chance to take the title.
For the Sugarmen to win, they needed to claim victory at Prinsloo 7s, which would bring their tally to 110 points, while hoping Quins finished sixth or lower.
A fifth-place finish for Quins would force a tie, leaving the championship to be decided by point differential or other tiebreakers.
However, if Quins reached the semi-finals, Kabras’ hopes would be dashed, regardless of their result. They however lost to Nondies RFC in the semifinal while Quins lost to Nondies in the quarterfinal stage.
Despite their strong performances throughout the circuit, Kabras’ title dreams once again remained elusive.
Stallions stand out
The Stallions made a commendable debut in the National 7s Circuit, finishing 12th on the log with 32 points in their maiden season.
Their performances throughout the campaign showcased promise and potential, earning them respect among seasoned teams.
Meanwhile, Blak Blad, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) Rugby, and Catholic University of East Africa (CUEA) Monks also delivered outstanding displays during the 7s season, further highlighting the depth of talent and competitiveness in the circuit.
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