Kabras Sugar seek sweetness at Dala Sevens in Kisumu

Kabras Sugar’s Mathias Osimbo (left) and Lameck Ambetsa celebrate after beating Kenya Harlequins during Kenya Cup match at RFUEA Ground. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Kabras Sugar RFC has set its sights on a historic first-ever Dala Sevens title as the third leg of the 2024 National Sevens Circuit kicks off at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Kisumu from Saturday.

The tournament, which has been a fixture in Kenya's rugby calendar since 2003, will see top teams battle for supremacy in one of the most competitive legs of the circuit with defending champions KCB hoping to retain the title.

Coming off a third-place finish at the Ingo Sevens, Kabras, currently second in the overall standings, is eager to build on their momentum and make a strong statement in Kisumu.

Kabras Sevens coach Felix Ayange has expressed confidence in his team’s potential, citing the importance of bouncing back stronger after the recent showing.

"We've had a good run so far, but we know there's room for improvement," Ayange said.

"Finishing third in Kakamega was decent, but our goal is always to be at the top. Dala Sevens presents a new opportunity, and we're targeting nothing short of victory."

To bolster their chances, Ayange has made strategic changes to the squad, including the recall of several Kenya Sevens stars. The most notable inclusion is Brian Tanga, who returns to the team after representing Kenya at the Olympics.

Tanga's experience and skill set are expected to provide Kabras with the cutting edge they need in a competition that has historically eluded them.

"We've brought in some of our top players because we want to ensure we have the best possible team on the pitch," Ayange said.

"Tanga’s return is a big boost for us, and we’re also excited to have Derrick Ashihundu and Alfred Orege from the Kenya Simbas. Their inclusion adds both depth and experience, which will be crucial in a tournament as competitive as the Dala Sevens."

In addition to the seasoned stars, Kabras will feature Warren Kamadi, making his first appearance since the Tisap Sevens after a loan stint at Kisumu RFC.

Young flyer Humphrey Asiligwa will also be making his debut for Kabras this season, injecting fresh energy into the squad.

These changes come at the expense of several players, including Collins Osore, Victor Otieno, Griffin Chao, Clinton Litali, and Jackton Osoo, who have been dropped from the lineup.

However, the core of the team remains intact, with key players like Brian Mutua, Patrick Lumumba, William Mwanji, Biden Hayo, and Eric Cantona making their third consecutive appearances in the campaign.

Kabras RFC has been drawn in Group C, where they will face MMUST, Kisumu RFC, and Stallions.

While the competition will be fierce, especially with tournament hosts Kisumu RFC in the mix, Kabras is determined to assert their dominance and secure their first Dala Sevens crown.

"The competition is tough, and we respect every team we’ll face," Ayange said. "But we are also confident in our preparation and the talent within our squad. We believe this could be our year to finally lift the Dala Sevens trophy."

The Dala Sevens, named after the Luo word for "home," has seen various teams claim the title over the years, with KCB Rugby being the most successful with six championships.

Kabras, on the other hand, has only won one National Sevens Circuit title, back in 2017, and they are eager to add another to their trophy cabinet.