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Abukuse craving for playing time after shaking off injury
Reading Time: 3min | Fri. 10.11.23. | 21:47
Kenya 7s International Dennis Abukuse has finally returned to training after being forced to the sidelines following a long battle with a career-threatening injury
Kenya 7s International Dennis Abukuse has finally returned to training after being forced to the sidelines following a long battle with a career-threatening injury.
Abukuse's immediate playing future was in serious doubt since he knocked himself out attempting a tackle early in their Christie 7s opening match against Nondies RFC. He suffered a head injury after colliding heads with his teammate Chrispin Shitundo as they tried to bring down a Nondies RFC player.
The injury was Abukuse’s first since he started his rugby career, forcing him to take a ‘mandatory rest’, as he described.
Speaking to Mozzart Sport, the Menengai Oilers player noted that reuniting with his fellow players was an overwhelming feeling. He will begin with gym sessions as he slowly progresses to the pitch sessions.
"I am doing okay. I was from seeing the doctor and he gave me a recommendation letter so that I can start training. I have started going to the gym, as I slowly progress," he offered.
The Bungoma High School alumnus pointed out that he will make a remarkable comeback during their final match of 2023 or the 2024 opening match.
On what he missed while he was away, Abukuse noted that it was heartbreaking to witness his team relinquish the National 7s Circuit to KCB Rugby. His injury prevented him from scoring crucial points for the Oilers. The side finished their campaign at position four, a decline from the 2022 circuit where they emerged overall winners with 113 points.
“Seeing my team lose was the worst part of my healing process. In my notebook for this circuit, I had written that teams like Nakuru RFC and Nondies RFC would not win against the Oilers this circuit, but unfortunately, it ended this way,” he offered.
The 2023 Driftwood 7s Most Valuable player also thanked the rugby fraternity for their support during this challenging phase of his career. He noted that their support is motivating as he perseveres through the trials of recovery.
“My friends, teammates, and fans have been supportive. The fans were also coming to the hospital to see me. A big shout-out to the players and fans who also kept texting and calling. I do not want to fail my fans. I was not born to be a failure. I give my all and play any game like there is no other,” Abukuse said.
With the fans anticipating his comeback, Abukuse only promised more. However, he emphasized that his top priority would always be his own safety and well-being. He foresees a future where the Oilers will lift the Kenya Cup title.
“This period is giving me a chance to rest and I will come back stronger. So far, I have carried the circuit, and runners-up in the Kenya Cup league. My goal is to be part of the Menengai Oilers team that will win the Kenya Cup title someday,” Abukuse said.
Drawing from his own experience, Abukuse emphasized the importance of game awareness, maintaining peak physical fitness, and adhering to correct techniques during training and matches.
“In rugby, you must protect yourself before the team doctor or referee protects you. Protection begins with you. As rugby players, we should know how to tackle because I think that is where most injuries arise,” he concluded.
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The utility player was part of the newly-introduced faces in the Kenya 7s squad under the tutelage of former coach Damian Mc Grath after an impressive performance in the 2022 National 7s Circuit
