T. NashipaeKCB rugby ready to roar in 2023 National 7s circuit
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 20.06.23. | 16:00
The bankers are looking to rise above past disappointments.
After a challenging 2022 National 7s circuit, KCB Rugby is gearing up to reclaim their top spot in the 7s version of the game.
The side ended their 2022 campaign in second place, losing the title to Menengai Oilers, having accumulated 107 points while the champions ended the campaign with 113 points.
KCB registered a drop from 2019 where they won four cup titles to be crowned champions. Last year, they only managed the Kabeberi 7s Cup title after a grueling 12-10 win over Strathmore Leos.
With the 2023 circuit kickoff looming, Mozzart Sport caught up with former Kenya 7s captain-cum-coach Andrew Amonde who will lead the side alongside Mark Mshila and Dennis Mwanja.
According to Amonde, the side had ample time to prepare for the circuit. KCB Rugby last touched the ball on Saturday 15 March during the Enterprise Cup final when they narrowly lost 30-27 to rivals Kabras RFC.
They had the opportunity to gauge their progress during the 7s friendlies played at the RFUEA Grounds on Saturday 17 June and managed two clean sheets; 24-00 against Mwamba RFC and 27-00 against Nakuru RFC. They however lost 29-21 to Kenya Harlequins.
“I feel this year's preparation has had adequate time to create the best environment and culture for the team to participate in the local circuit and availability of all players for selection,” Amonde said.
The former Kenya 7s captain said that the side is focusing on building a tenacious defense in addition to team bonding.
“The biggest thing we have focused on is our defense and team cohesion,” he offered.
Amonde also revealed that they will unveil new faces who will be looking to wow, with their goal being to better their 2022 performance.
“We have a few guys who have never played for KCB 7s. I am excited to see them don the shirt. The biggest goal for us is to do better than last year's team. We will have to work hard and smart to succeed,” he concluded.
2023 National 7s circuit dates
1st & 2nd July – Dala 7’s - Kisumu
8th & 9th July – Driftwoods 7’s – Mombasa
5th & 6th August – Prinsloo 7’s - Nakuru
12th & 13th August – Christie 7’s – Nairobi
2nd & 3rd September – Tisap 7’s - Eldoret
9th & 10th September - Kabeberi - Nairobi
