Strathmore players celebrate after winning the Prinsloo Sevens last year in Nakuru / HANDOUTNakuru will host the opening leg of the 2026 National Sevens Circuit this weekend after organisers confirmed all preparations are complete for the two-day Prinsloo Sevens tournament.
Tournament director Edward Moseti said more than 20 teams have confirmed participation, setting the stage for a highly competitive event.
"All is set for the tournament, and we are looking forward to welcoming teams and fans to Nakuru. With more than 20 teams confirmed, we expect highly competitive rugby and entertaining moments throughout the weekend. We have also put the necessary measures in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable tournament," said Moseti.
In the men's Division One competition, 16 teams have been drawn into four pools. Pool A features Kenya Harlequin, Zetech University, Menengai Oilers and Mombasa RFC, while Pool B comprises KCB Rugby, Nondescripts, Mwamba RFC and hosts Nakuru RFC.
Pool C has KU Blak Blad, defending champions Strathmore Leos, MMUST and Catholic Monks, while Pool D pits Kabras Sugar, Daystar Falcons, Stallions Rugby and Kabarak University against each other.
The top two teams from each pool will qualify for the Cup quarter-finals, with the remaining sides contesting the placement play-offs. Division Two will also feature 16 teams, while eight women's teams will compete in two pools.
Defending champions Strathmore Leos will be among the favourites alongside 2025 circuit champions KCB Rugby, Kabras Sugar, Menengai Oilers and Kenya Harlequin.
Fans will also be treated to off-the-pitch entertainment courtesy of Tusker, which has injected Sh1.5 million into the tournament. The sponsorship will support tournament operations while enhancing the fan experience through live entertainment and official after-parties on both days.
Following the Prinsloo Sevens, the circuit heads to Dala Sevens in Kisumu (August 1-2), Kabeberi Sevens in Nairobi (August 15-16), Driftwood Sevens in Mombasa (August 22-23), Embu Sevens (September 5-6) and concludes with Christie Sevens in Nairobi (September 12-13).
Meanwhile, former Kenya Simbas internationals Brian Nyikuli and Geoffrey Ominde have attained World Rugby Level Two Coaching accreditation in the 15s game, marking another milestone in their transition into coaching.
The Kenya Rugby Union congratulated the duo through its official social media platforms, hailing their latest achievement.
"A hearty congratulations to former Kenya Simbas player Brian Nyikuli on your World Rugby Level Two Coaching (15s) accreditation," the union posted.
In a separate message, KRU added: "Congratulations to former Kenya Simbas player Geoffrey Ominde on your World Rugby Level Two Coaching (15s) accreditation. To bigger and better, Ominde!"
