Kisumu: KCB target back-to-back Dala 7s victory

By Brian Otieno — 31 July 2026 — 4 min read

KCB Rugby Club, the reigning champions of the Dala 7s, are aiming to secure another victory as the second leg of the 2026 National Sevens Circuit commences on Saturday at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu. The team enters the tournament with momentum, having won the opening leg, the Prinsloo Sevens in Nakuru, last weekend.

The win at Prinsloo Sevens earned KCB 22 points, placing them at the top of the National Sevens Circuit standings ahead of the Kisumu event. The squad will see the anticipated debut of Kenyan international Nygel Amaitsa, who recently joined from Strathmore Leos. Additionally, fellow Kenya international David Nyangige, who transferred from Impala Rugby Club before the season began, is also expected to make his first appearance for KCB.

Head coach Andrew Amonde acknowledged the team’s strong start but emphasized the ongoing effort required to defend both the Dala 7s title and the overall circuit crown. He noted that while the opening leg victory provided a solid foundation, each tournament presents distinct challenges, with Dala Sevens being no exception. Amonde stated that the team has prepared thoroughly, integrated new players, and aims for continuous improvement while maintaining their playing style.

Amaitsa expressed his eagerness to play for KCB Rugby, highlighting his pride in representing the team. He mentioned feeling well-received by the squad and enjoying his integration into the environment. Amaitsa looks forward to contributing, learning from experienced teammates, and helping the team achieve its objectives this weekend.

KCB will also rely on experienced players such as George Ooro, Samuel Asati, Vincent Onyala, Elvis Olukusi, Festus Shiasi, Floyd Wabwire, and Brian Wahinya in their pursuit of another title. The team has positive memories from their last visit to Kisumu, where they defeated Kabras Sugar 12-5 in the previous year’s Dala 7s final. That triumph was significant in their successful 2025 National Sevens Circuit campaign, which concluded with them as overall champions, accumulating 126 points.

A strong performance in Kisumu would further solidify KCB‘s position at the top of the standings before the circuit moves to Nairobi for the Kabeberi Sevens, scheduled for August 15 and 16.

NYS Spades Prepare for Dala 7s Challenge

Meanwhile, the National Youth Service (NYS) Spades are also preparing for the Dala 7s in Kisumu. Head coach Martin Munga discussed the demanding training regimen that contributed to his side’s performance at the Prinsloo 7s. Despite finishing at the bottom of their pool, the Spades garnered praise for their fearless play, defensive strength, and willingness to challenge established teams in Nakuru.

The NYS Spades began their campaign at Prinsloo 7s with a 12-5 loss to the Catholic University of East Africa (CUEA) Monks. They then faced the defending champions, KCB Rugby, in a closely contested match, resulting in a 14-0 defeat. The pool phase concluded for them with a 10-0 loss to Nondies RFC.

In the Challenge Trophy, the Spades continued to show determination, losing 12-5 to Menengai Oilers in the quarterfinals. Their tournament ended after a defeat to Kisumu RFC in the 13th-place semifinal. Despite these outcomes, Munga believes the team’s performances indicate positive progress.

Munga attributed the team’s development to thorough preparation, emphasizing the role of video analysis in enhancing tactical awareness and decision-making. He explained that they conduct numerous video sessions to analyze their games and opponents, and they practice under pressure, focusing on “red zones” for exiting and “green zones” for attacking.

The preparation of the squad involves unique challenges, as players balance military duties, academics, and training. According to Munga, players often start their day early, around 3 or 4 am, to manage their responsibilities alongside multiple training sessions. He noted that depending on the week, they have two to three sessions daily, divided among video sessions, fieldwork, and physical fitness.

Munga commended his players’ commitment and attitude, stating that their discipline makes coaching the team a rewarding experience. The Spades have been drawn in Division Two Pool B for the Dala 7s, where they will compete against Western Bulls, Busia Borderucks, and Kisii Polytechnic as they seek a breakthrough performance in the National Sevens Circuit.

With high confidence, new signings integrating well, and a strong squad available, KCB will aim for consecutive titles and to maintain their early-season momentum.

Source: standardmedia.co.ke