Stage set for thrilling Enterprise Cup semifinals matches

There is plenty to be excited about as the highly anticipated Enterprise Cup semifinals take center stage on Saturday, 1 June 2024 in Nairobi and Kakamega counties.

These semifinals were postponed to ensure the smooth conclusion of the 2024 Rugby Super Series, which wrapped up on May 25 with Menengai Cream Cheetahs emerging as champions.

Quins tackle KCB Rugby

Kenya Harlequins will make a short trip to the KCB Sports Club in Ruaraka where they will lock horns with KCB Rugby in the first semifinal match.

The Quins who proceeded to this stage without breaking a sweat will be on the hunt of their maiden Enterprise Cup victory. They received a walkover from United States International University (USIU) in the round of 16, and their match against Kenyatta University Blak Blad was abandoned due to the lack of a well-equipped ambulance.

They will be on a revenge mission after failing to go past the Bankers in their 2023/24 Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) league match where they lost 45-15.

Speaking ahead of their match, an audibly undeterred coach Paul Murunga expressed confidence that his boys would sparkle. Several of them played in the Rugby Super Series and the tactician was confident that the experience gained would be crucial in propelling them to greater success.

“The boys are ready. We have not played any Enterprise Cup match this year and we hope to register a win against long-term rivals KCB. Most of the boys are fresh from the Rugby Super Series and they will be bringing the experience on board,” Murunga started.

Having played KCB in previous matches, he understood the tough assignment that awaited them, and urged fans to turn up in large numbers and cheer them to glory.

“KCB are tough opponents. But we believe that we are tougher. We call on all our fans to rally behind us as we lock horns with KCB this afternoon. Come and let's have a good time,” he offered.

Their opponents advanced to this stage by overpowering Catholic University of East Africa (CUEA) Monks 70-3 in the pre-quarters, and defeating Northern Suburbs 65-7 in the quarterfinals.

Kabras RFC welcome Nondies

At the same time, over in Kakamega, defending champions Kabras Sugar will host Nondescripts at the ASK Kakamega Showground. This will be a repeat of the 2023/24 Kenya Cup semifinals where Kabras edged Nondies 37-9 to proceed to the finals.

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The Sugarmen are aiming for their fourth consecutive Enterprise Cup title.

They reached this stage without breaking a sweat after walkovers from Mwamba RFC and Strathmore Leos in the pre-quarter and quarter-final rounds.

Their opponents Nondies RFC earned a semi-final slot after defeating Mean Machine 12-3 in the quarterfinals. They had received a walkover from Mount Kenya University (MKU) Thika in the round of 16 action.

The final has been pushed ahead to June 8, 2024.