All set for Driftwood Sevens as defending champions Kabras Sugar face Quins

Kabras Sugar stars Eric Cantona (left) and Derrick Ashiundu during warm up. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

The fifth leg of the 2024 National Sevens Circuit, Driftwood Sevens, is set to kick off this Saturday at the Mombasa Sports Club, with defending champions Kabras Sugar RFC determined to retain their crown.

Kabras currently sit second in the national standings with 73 points, despite an underwhelming finish at the Kabeberi Sevens two weeks ago, where they failed to reach the semifinals.

Kabras Sugar players Alfred Orege and Brian Tanga (center) share a moment after a past match.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

In a bid to reclaim their title, Kabras find themselves in a challenging Group C, often dubbed the "pool of death," alongside Kenya Harlequin, Nakuru RFC, and Mwamba RFC.

Kenya Harlequin, the most successful team in Driftwood Sevens history with 12 titles, pose a major challenge in Group C. They have been consistent throughout the season, reaching the semifinals in every leg so far. Mwamba, with six titles, and Nakuru RFC, add further intensity to the group.

Daytsar Falcons winger Patrick Odongo. [Washington onyango,Standard]

Top seeds KCB Rugby, fresh off their dominant 29-7 victory over Menengai Oilers at Kabeberi, will lead Group A. The bankers, aiming for their fourth Driftwood Sevens title, will face MMUST, KU Blak Blad, and hosts Mombasa Sports Club.

Menengai Oilers, last year’s finalists, head Group B alongside Daystar Falcons, Nondies, and invited side TUM Marines. Oilers will look to bounce back after their Kabeberi final defeat to KCB.

Samwel Mwaura (center) of Menengai Oilers in past action.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Group D features Catholic Monks, Strathmore Leos, Kabete Stallions, and Zetech University, adding a mix of varsity talent to the fray.

Kabras Sugar will look to repeat their 2023 heroics, where they narrowly edged out Menengai Oilers 10-7 in the final.

The competition promises thrilling action as teams vie for the coveted Driftwood Sevens title, with all eyes on who will emerge victorious this weekend.

Driftwood Sevens pools

Group A
KCB Rugby
MMUST
KU BlakBlad
Mombasa Sports Club

Group B
Menengai Oilers
Daystar Falcons
Nondies
TUM Marines

Group C
Kenya Harlequin
Kabras Sugar Rugby
Nakuru RFC
Mwamba RFC

Group D
Catholic Monks
Strathmore Leos
Kabete Stallions Rugby
Zetech University