Kenya Cup: KCB, Kabras lead chase for final return as Blak Blad eye history

The long wait appears headed to an end. The gods of Kenya rugby have spoken, and the ancestors are patiently waiting.

Excitement is sweeping across the local rugby scene. Mark your calendar and hold your horses.

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A rich rugby menu awaits to spice up a super Saturday at the KCB Sports Club, Ruaraka and the ASK Kakamega Showground, as the powerful valves of the game once again unite the nation in what analysts describe as a global battle in character and competition.

The stage is now set for the Kenya Cup semi-finals on Saturday, 25 April, with four teams left standing in the race for the coveted title.

In Kakamega, defending champions Kabras Sugar RFC will host the season’s surprise package Blak Blad at 3:00 p.m., while in Nairobi, KCB Rugby face off with Nondescripts RFC at 4:00 p.m.

Kabras return to the semi-finals for an 11th consecutive season, a testament to their dominance over the past decade. The Sugarmen once again finished top of the regular season standings, securing a home semi-final for the eighth straight year, and reinforcing their tag as title favourites.

However, all eyes will also be on Blak Blad, who have scripted one of the most compelling underdog stories this season. The university side reached their first-ever semi-final after edging Strathmore Leos 27-25 in a dramatic varsity derby, and now face their toughest test yet against the reigning champions.

Kabras have bolstered their squad with the return of key players, including Jackson Siketi, who makes his first Kenya Cup start of 2026 after recovering from a concussion. The winger, who starred in last year’s semi-final, will be part of a dangerous backline featuring Eric Cantona and Mathias Osimbo.

Walter Okoth returns to midfield alongside Derrick Ashihundu, while Roy Maruti and Jone Kubu steer the game from scrum-half and fly-half respectively. In the pack, Jeanson Misoga and George Nyambua return to strengthen the forward unit, with Collins Indeche retaining his place after an impressive showing in the Enterprise Cup.

Why Blak Blad are not under pressure ahead of their clash with Kabras

Blak Blad, on the other hand, have maintained the core that powered their fairytale run. Austin Adero, Antony Amayi, and Brian Kidake will anchor the front row, while Derrick Masese and Daniel Oyoo combine in the half-backs.

Speed on the flanks will come from Winstone Ayieko and Arcadias Khwesa, with Elvis Otete providing cover at fullback. In midfield, Claude Nyamiro and David Ochieng will be tasked with controlling the tempo against a seasoned Kabras side.

Meanwhile, in Nairobi, KCB Rugby will be aiming to return to the Kenya Cup final after falling short last season. The Bankers have been a model of consistency, reaching their 10th consecutive semi-final, and finishing second in the regular season standings.

They will face a resilient Nondescripts side, who are also enjoying a strong run, making it to their third straight semi-final since returning to the top tier. Nondies booked their place with a convincing 32-17 win over Menengai Oilers.

KCB have named a strong squad, bolstered by their sevens stars, with Samuel Asati and George Ooro leading the charge.

Asati starts at scrum-half, partnering Brian Wahinya at fly-half, while captain Bob Muhati links up with Richel Wangila in midfield.

Festus Shiasi, Mike Wekesa and Isaac Njoroge complete the back three, while Ooro and Elvis Olukusi headline a mobile and physical back row alongside number eight Sheldon Kahi.

Up front, Nick Okullo, Fidel Maina and Wilhite Mususi will anchor the scrum, with Emmanuel Silungi and John Aswani pairing in the second row.

Nondescripts, captained by Ronnie Omondi from fullback, have assembled a balanced side capable of causing an upset. Their forward pack, led by Elisha Koronya and Boniface Amimo, will look to match KCB’s physicality, while the half-back pairing of Alexander Derveraux and Timothy Lugalia will be key in dictating play.

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