KCB 's Elvis Olukusi in action against Presbyterian University of East Africa during the Juja Sevens/HANDOUTKCB RFC coach Andrew Amonde believes tactical adjustments, squad depth, and the right mentality will be key as the bankers begin the defence of their SportPesa National Sevens Circuit title at the Prinsloo Sevens this weekend in Nakuru.
The former Kenya Sevens captain’s side has been drawn in Pool C alongside Catholic University Monks, Nondies, and National Youth Service (NYS) Spades, with Amonde confident his squad is well prepared after an impressive build-up to the tournament.
“We have had a good training period, both collectively and individually. Winning the KCB Met Sevens and Juja Sevens with our second-string squad shows we are more than ready,” said Amonde.
The victories in the pre-season tournaments have given the coaching staff confidence in the depth of the squad, with several players pushing for places in the matchday team ahead of the opening leg of the circuit.
Amonde said preparations this week have focused on recovery, fine-tuning tactics, and ensuring the players are mentally ready for the challenge ahead.
“This week has been about light training, putting the final touches on our preparations, getting into the right frame of mind, and reminding the players to enjoy themselves,” he added.
Competition for places remains fierce, with the squad boasting several Kenya Sevens internationals alongside quality additions signed during the mid-season transfer window. Amonde acknowledged that naming the final squad has been one of the toughest aspects of preparations.
“Choosing the final team will not be easy. We have quality throughout the squad, and we must stay hungry and keep fighting if we are to defend our title,” he said.
The bankers will once again rely on the experience of Samuel Asati, George Ooro, Vincent Onyala, and Festus Shiasi, while new signings Nygel Amaitsa and Davis Nyangige are expected to strengthen an already star-studded squad.
KCB enter the tournament as one of the favourites after an outstanding campaign last season. The bankers won four of the six National Sevens Circuit tournaments, lifting the Driftwood, Christie, Kabeberi, and Dala Sevens titles. They also reached the finals of both the Prinsloo and Embu Sevens before finishing top of the overall standings with 125 points to secure the circuit crown.
Elsewhere, defending Prinsloo Sevens champions Strathmore Leos have been drawn in Pool B alongside university rivals Daystar Falcons, MMUST RFC, and Kisumu RFC as they begin their own title defence.
Pool A is expected to be one of the most competitive groups of the weekend, bringing together Kenya Cup champions Kabras Sugar, Kenya Harlequin, Mwamba RFC, and Embu RFC in what promises to be a tightly contested battle for the knockout places.
Hosts Nakuru RFC headline Pool D, where they will face regional rivals Menengai Oilers, Impala RFC, and Blak Blad in another highly competitive group.
The Division Two competition is equally competitive with Pool A featuring Makueni Ravens, KCA University, Kabarak University, and NYS Scorpions.
Pool B consists of Zetech Oaks, MKU Thika, Nandi Bears, and UOE Trojans, while Pool C comprises Homeboyz, Northern Suburbs, Kitale, and Egerton Wasps.
Pool D completes the draw with AP Warriors, Stallions, Eldopoly Community, and Molo all aiming to secure promotion and make a strong start to their National Sevens Circuit campaign.
