Will Kabras RFC finally break jinx and win maiden Dala 7s title?

Kabras RFC will be looking to make history at this year’s Dala 7s as they aim to clinch their first-ever title when the competition gets underway from Saturday 17 to Sunday 18 August at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Kisumu.

The Kakamega-based side has consistently been a force to reckon with in the local rugby scene, but the elusive Dala 7s trophy has remained out of their grasp.

The Sugarmen started their circuit on a high by winning the Christie 7s before clinching third-place during the Kakamega Ingo 7s. They will be keen to extend their fine form.

They are in a fair pool C that sees them face Kabete Stallions, hosts Kisumu RFC, and MMUST Rugby.

Speaking ahead of the match, the team’s coach Felix Ayange was confident that they picked the necessary lessons from the opening two legs. They will be looking to apply them in Dala 7s.

“We have learnt to take our chances whenever we have them, playing to our strengths and keeping it simple. In Kakamega, KCB eliminated us from main cup contention. They are worthy opponents in any version of the game. Any match against them is always a cracker. We beat them during Christie and they got revenge in Kakamega,” Ayange told Mozzart Sport.

During Christie 7s, the Sugarmen shared 12-12 spoils with Catholic University of East Africa (CUEA) Monks in the second pool match. For Ayange, the match was a testament to the growing level of competitiveness in the 7s version of the game.

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He attributed the competitiveness to Kenya 7s getting back to the HSBC World Rugby 7s Series, and players are doing their best to be part of the team.

“Looking at the first two legs, 7s is anyone’s game and we cannot undermine any teams and we cannot say that quarters are a sure bet. Anyone can be in the quarters. It is anyone’s game; that will be at the back of our minds when we head to Dala,” he averred.

The circuit took a week’s break to allow the players to rest and recharge, and Ayange noted that his charges were well rested and breathing fire ahead of Dala.

“A change is as good as a rest. The break has been wonderful and the boys are ready. The competition will also show us where we are. Our goal is to win the overall title. We will achieve that by collecting maximum points during each leg,” he concluded.

KABRAS’ SQUAD TO DALA

The team’s squad to Dala has been named and Ayange has introduced five players for their first appearance, including Kenya International Brian Tanga, who returns after participating in the Olympics.

Also joining the squad are Kenya Simbas duo Derrick Ashihundu and Alfred Orege.

Warren Kamadi is set to make his first appearance for Kabras since the Tisap 7s, following a loan stint at Kisumu RFC.

Kabras RFC squad for Dala 7s: Brian Mutua, Patrick Lumumba, William Mwanji, Brian Tanga, Eric Cantona, Derrick Ashiundu, Alfred Orege, Patrick Kluivert, Warren Kamadi, Jackson Siketa, Humprey Asiligwa, Biden Hayo, James Olela.