Kabras Sugar vs KCB Rugby: A Clash of Titans in the Enterprise Cup Final

Kabras Sugar seeks back-to-back perfect seasons and cup double.
KCB Rugby aims to reclaim dominance with sixth Enterprise Cup win.
Coaches emphasize preparation and strategy for the final showdown.
Match streamed live; tickets Ksh 500 at RFUEA Grounds.

Kabras Sugar’s Unstoppable Journey

Kabras Sugar Rugby Club is on the verge of cementing its dominance in Kenyan rugby. Their journey has been nothing short of spectacular, with an unbeaten record spanning two consecutive Kenya Cup seasons. This year, they face off against their perennial rivals, KCB Rugby, in the 85th Enterprise Cup final at the RFUEA Grounds on Saturday, 8 June 2024.

The Kakamega-based team has demonstrated exceptional prowess and resilience, capturing the 2023 Kenya Cup title without a single loss. Their remarkable run continued into the Enterprise Cup, where they staged a thrilling comeback to edge out KCB with a narrow 30-27 victory in last year’s final.

Perfect Seasons and Ultimate Glory

This season, Kabras Sugar replicated their flawless league performance, clinching the 2024 Kenya Cup title once again without tasting defeat. Now, they stand on the brink of completing a perfect league and cup double for the second consecutive year. This achievement would not only reinforce their supremacy in Kenyan rugby but also solidify their legacy as one of the greatest teams in the sport’s history.

KCB Rugby: The Challengers

KCB Rugby, a formidable team with a rich history of success, is the only obstacle in Kabras Sugar’s path to ultimate glory. Once dominant in their rivalry, KCB is eager to reclaim their former glory. They have won the Enterprise Cup five times, with their last triumphs in 2017 and 2018.

Coaches’ Insights

Kabras Sugar’s head coach, Carlos Katywa, emphasized the significance of the upcoming match. Speaking to Citizen Digital after their resounding 54-8 semifinal win over 25-time champions Nondescripts, Katywa said, “It will be a big game. KCB is fortunate to have been playing Enterprise for two games, unlike us who only had the semis. They have a fully fit, fledged side, so it’s going to be an interesting one. We have to be smart about how we go about business with them.”

KCB’s assistant coach, Mariko Mshilla, reflected on his team’s performance and their preparation for the final. After their 32-18 semifinal win over Kenya Harlequin, Mshilla stated, “It has been two weeks before we played a match and I could not be prouder of the team for executing our game plan. The boys looked a bit rusty but we will embark on a rigorous training next week ahead of the showdown. I am optimistic that we will take a stab at the sixth title and win it.”

Historic Achievements on the Line

Kabras Sugar is aiming for their fourth consecutive Enterprise Cup title, having won in 2019, 2022, and 2023. A victory would further entrench their dominance in Kenyan rugby. On the other hand, KCB is pursuing their sixth title, with previous wins in 2004, 2007, 2015, 2016, and 2017. This final is more than just a match; it’s a battle for historical supremacy.

Lineups

Kabras Sugar:

• 15. Eric Cantona
  14. Alfred Orege
  13. Ntabeni Dukisa
  12. Walter Okoth
  11. Humphrey Asiligwa
  10. Barry Robinson
  9. Dan Ang’wech
  1. Edward Mwaura
  2. Eugene Sifuna
  3. Ephraim Oduor
  4. Patrick Lumumba
  5. Clinton Litali
  6. George Nyambua (c)
  7. William Mwanji
  8. Jeanson Misoga

Replacements:

• 16. Teddy Akala
  17. Emmanuel Otieno
  18. Gabriel Adero
  19. Collins Indeche
  20. Biden Hayo
  21. Collins Osore
  22. James Olela
  23. Hillary Salano

KCB Rugby:

• 15. Darwin Mukidza
  14. Elphas Adunga
  13. Festus Shiasi
  12. Michael Wamalwa
  11. Jacob Ojee
  10. Elvis Namusasi
  9. Michael Wanjala
  1. Nick Okullo
  2. Griffin Musila (c)
  3. Wilhite Mususi
  4. Davis Chenge
  5. Andycole Omollo
  6. Manasseh Oduor
  7. Elvis Olukusi
  8. Martin Owillah

Replacements:

• 16. Fidel Maina
  17. TJ Okidia
  18. Nelson Nyandat
  19. Emmanuel Silungi
  20. Felix Ojow
  21. Emmanuel Opondo
  22. Levy Amunga
  23. Shaban Ahmed

Players To Watch

Eric Cantona (Kabras): Dynamic fullback with a flair for scoring.
Barry Robinson (Kabras): Key playmaker and tactical kicker at fly-half.
Darwin Mukidza (KCB): Versatile and powerful fullback known for his defense and attack.
Jacob Ojee (KCB): Speedy winger with a knack for breaking defenses.