Kenya Cup: Kabras Sugar seek to maintain dominant run against South Coast Pirates as Nondies seek to pile more misery on Mwamba

Kenya Cup matchday two is set to deliver thrilling rugby action across the country as teams aim to solidify their positions or bounce back from disappointing opening matches. Here’s a preview of the key clashes this weekend.

Mwamba RFC vs. Nondies

Venue: Impala Club

Mwamba RFC will seek redemption after their opening-day loss, hosting a confident Nondies side fresh off a narrow victory against Strathmore Leos. Kenya 7s star Daniel Taabu, named on the bench, could make a significant impact.

Mwamba’s lineup features notable changes in the front row, with Kevin Juma starting at loosehead prop and Jonah Mbari at tighthead. Captain Christopher Asira leads the back row, while Moses Keragori and Dennis Ndayala form the half-back pairing.

Babu has urged Mwamba fans to trust the process with the youngsters despite the side's heavy thrashing to Kenya Harlequin in their opening Kenya Cup clash of the season last week.

Nondies, under head coach Calum Oliver, have made three changes, with Bonface Amimo shifting to tighthead prop and former Mwamba player Tony Owuor earning his first start at number eight. The halfback duo of Ian Mumbwani and Timothy Lugalia remains unchanged.

Key Highlight: Nondies will aim for consecutive wins, building on their 22-16 triumph over Strathmore.

Nakuru RFC vs. Kenya Harlequins

Venue: Nakuru Athletic Club

Nakuru RFC, searching for their first win, face a tough Kenya Harlequins side that dominated Mwamba 55-22 last weekend.

Nakuru head coach Simon Wariuki has revamped his squad, introducing Felix Okoth and Barry Opondo to the starting lineup. Meanwhile, Quins welcome back Joshua Chisanga, who returns after a four-year absence, and have six changes to their squad, including a new-look backline featuring Wiseman Aganya and Paul Mutsami.

Key Highlight: Nakuru’s resilience versus Quins’ momentum makes for an intriguing encounter.

Kenya Harlequin boss Paul Murunga has rallied the new players in his squad to seize their chances in order to help strengthen the team if they are to close the gap on Kabras Sugar this season.

Venue: Seacrest Grounds, Ukunda

Defending champions Kabras RFC are making bold moves, with nine changes to their starting lineup, including the return of 10 Kenya Simbas internationals.

Notable inclusions are Edward Mwaura, Teddy Akala, and Asuman Mugerwa in the front row. Skipper George Nyambua and Jeanson Misoga bring experience from their recent Elgon Cup triumph.

South Coast Pirates, playing at home, will face a daunting challenge against a refreshed Kabras side.

Key Highlight: Kabras’ powerhouse squad versus Pirates’ home-ground advantage.

Kenya Harlequin toss aside Mwamba to kickstart their 2024/2025 Kenya Cup campaign on a high.

Venue: KCB Rugby Club, Ruaraka

KCB head coach Oliver Mang’eni has made eight changes to his squad, with Peter Waitere taking over as captain and leading from the eighth-man position. The backline sees significant adjustments, including Lionel Ajeliti at fullback and Austin Sikutwa on the wing.

Kisumu RFC, coming off a tough loss to Menengai Oilers, will need to step up to match KCB’s depth and structure.

Key Highlight: KCB’s adaptability and Kisumu’s quest to prove their mettle.

Shujaa are making a return to the world series and face a fight to maintain their core status

Strathmore Leos vs. Menengai Oilers

Venue: Madaraka Grounds

Strathmore Leos, reeling from their loss to Nondies, will look to make a statement against an Oilers side brimming with confidence after their opening-day win.

Leos’ lineup remains stable, with captain Ian Masheti leading the charge in the front row. Oilers head coach Gibson Weru has made three changes, bringing in experienced scrum-half Samson Onsomu and Kenya U20 winger Alvin Khavoli.

Key Highlight: Oilers’ explosive attack versus Leos’ determination to recover.

Kenya Cup’s second weekend promises high-energy performances and strategic battles as teams jostle for early season momentum. With returning stars and revamped squads, fans can expect a thrilling showcase of Kenyan rugby.