Richel Wangila opens up on fresh start at KCB Rugby after chaotic Harlequin exit
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Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 12.05.26. | 14:50
He was among the 38 players who exited Kenya Harlequin in September 2025 following a major fallout over the club’s payment structure
When Richel Wangila walked away from Kenya Harlequin in the middle of a turbulent season, few could have predicted just how quickly he would settle into life at KCB Rugby.
But months later, the center has emerged as one of the Bankers’ standout signings and is already eyeing bigger heights after an impressive debut campaign with the club.
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Wangila was among the 38 players who exited Kenya Harlequin in September 2025 following a major fallout over the club’s payment structure.
The alleged unrest began shortly after the Embu Sevens, with frustrations boiling over into player boycotts and tense meetings between the squad and club management.
The situation reached a breaking point during a heated meeting at the RFUEA Grounds on 20 September, where players were reportedly told to either accept the existing payment model or seek a way out of the club.
A poll later conducted in the team’s official WhatsApp group showed overwhelming support for departure if the structure remained unchanged, with more than 30 players voting to leave.
In the aftermath, Quins confirmed the release of 38 players, including several key figures such as; Amon Wamalwa, Lucky Dewald, Arnold Onzere, and Wangila.
For Wangila, however, the move to KCB Rugby has proven to be the fresh start he needed.
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The talented center quickly established himself in the squad and formed a solid midfield partnership with KCB captain Bob Muhati.
His performances throughout the season earned him a starting berth in the Kenya Cup final against Kabras RFC, marking his maiden appearance in the country’s biggest match.
Although KCB narrowly lost 14-8 to Kabras in the final, Wangila described the experience as a major milestone in his growth as a player.
“Playing in my first final was such an exciting experience for me. It was a tough and competitive match, but I enjoyed every moment of it because these are the kinds of games every player dreams of being part of.
I have learned so much from the occasion. As a team and as an individual, I feel like we are growing, improving, and moving in the right direction,” he said.
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Since joining KCB, Wangila believes the environment around him has played a huge role in elevating his game.
“I think the biggest secret behind my growth has been the environment I am in. When you are in a good environment, your performance will naturally improve,” he noted.
His combination with Muhati in midfield has also become one of KCB’s biggest strengths, with the pair developing strong chemistry over the course of the season.
“I have really gelled well with Muhati in the midfield. The understanding between us has continued to grow with every game, and communication has become much easier.
A lot of that also comes from the guidance of our game drivers because we have a very good number 10 and quality backs around us,” he offered.
Despite falling short in the Kenya Cup final, Wangila remains optimistic about the future and is determined to continue making an impact at the club.
“I am here to stay and make the most out of my time here. I want to continue improving, contributing to the team, and taking every opportunity that comes my way,” he added.
KCB head coach Andrew Amonde has also been impressed by how quickly Wangila and the other new signings adapted to life at the club.
“The new additions that we have in the team have been marvelous. They stood out, blended seamlessly and that shows you the effort that they have made,” Amonde said.