T. NashipaeWho is Daniel Lupao Sikuta? Seven things you should know about the Kabras RFC flanker
Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 02.05.23. | 13:40
Dan Sikuta commonly known as ‘Skubez’ is among the deadliest flankers in the history of Kenya
When it comes to rugby in Kenya, one name that stands out is that of Dan Sikuta. The Kabras RFC flanker has been a key player for both his club and country, having represented Kenya at the international level severally. Skubez has gone through a unique journey to where his rugby career stands today, and he is going down as one of the best players in Kenya.
Sikuta was born in Bungoma County on 28th December 1992. He weighs 110 kg and is 7.1 inches tall.
But just why is the 29-year-old Sikuta so well-regarded in the rugby community? Here are seven surprising facts to know about Dan Sikuta.
1. He eats a lot of kienyeji- indigenous vegetables.
Rugby is a physically demanding sport that requires players to give strong muscles, high energy levels, and quick reflexes. To achieve this, rugby players must have a healthy and balanced diet. While many players focus on consuming high levels of proteins and carbohydrates to refuel their workouts, it is equally important to ensure they are getting enough vegetables.
In Kenya, kienyeji refers to the African Indigenous Vegetables which have now become an integral part of our diet. They include namasaka, the Luhya word for managu, amaranth, cowpeas, and spider plant (sagaa). Sikuta incorporates a variety of vegetables into his diet anytime, and claims he would eat kienyeji any day, anytime.
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2. Kabras RFC signed him in 2016
Sikuta played for Mwamba RFC between 2010 and 2016 before joining Kabras RFC in August 2016. He has been the captain for Kabras RFC which he led to win two Kenya Cup titles and won back-to-back Enterprise Cup.
He also won Safari Seven's Cup in 2018 and the overall Local Seven's circuit Champion in 2017.At the international level, Skubez has played 159 matches and scored 35 tries and 175 points in the HSBC World 7s series. He has captained the Kenya 15s national team and has 34 caps.
3. He has never used supplements but drinks Coke before games
The flanker has never used supplements in his life. While supplements might seem like a quick and easy way to improve performance, they can actually be harmful to the players’ health and impact their performance. They may also contain harmful ingredients that can have negative effects on a player’s health. According to Sikuta, he has never used supplements since 2012 but only drinks cocacola before the game
4. He loves wearing kitenge
In the world of rugby, fashion is not usually the first thing that comes to mind. Sikuta’s taste of fashion is what makes him stand out, especially his love for kitenge, a colorful and vibrant fabric that is traditionally worn in East Africa.
According to Sikuta, Kitenge is not just a fabric, it is a statement. “When I wear Kitenge, I feel proud of my heritage and culture. It is a way for me to express myself and showcase my personality on and off the field,” he disclosed.
5. He loves his family
While his playing skills and talent are important, having a strong family support system plays an important role in success on and off the field. Sikuta confessed his undying love for his young family.
6. He plays football on Sundays and off seasons
Rugby and football are two sports that require different skills. However, for Sikuta, playing football on Sunday is a way to stay active and challenge himself in a new way. For Sikuta, playing football is not about winning or losing, but about having fun and staying active.
7. He looks up to Humprey Kayange
Sikuta described former Kenya 7s skipper Humprey Kayange as his role model. Kayange has had a long distinguished career as a player and is now the male representative at the National Olympic Committee. He was also recently elected director in the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) elections.
