Impala Floodlit 2024: KCB to begin title defence against Blak Blad

KCB's Michael Wamalwa (center) in action against Blak Blad at Dala Sevens. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

The stage is set for the 2024 Impala Floodlit Rugby Tournament, with defending champions KCB RFC kicking off their title defence against Blak Blad in the opening quarterfinal on Saturday, October 19, at the Impala Club.

The tournament, which draws together top Kenyan rugby clubs, university teams, and women’s squads, promises thrilling matchups as eight teams battle it out for supremacy.

KCB, who are gunning for their sixth consecutive Impala Floodlit title and an 11th overall, will face a stern challenge from Kenya University’s Blak Blad in the first quarterfinal.

KCB, led by experienced players and known for their dominant play, will look to extend their winning streak, having clinched a narrow 25-23 victory over Nondies in last year’s final.

Menengai Oilers, coached by Gibson Weru, will square off against Catholic Monks in the second quarterfinal. Weru's Oilers, a rising force in Kenyan rugby, are looking to build on their consistent performances in recent seasons.

Last year’s runners-up, Nondescripts (Nondies), will face Strathmore Leos in what promises to be an exciting clash in the third quarterfinal. Nondies will be eager to avenge last year’s heart-wrenching loss and make another run to the final.

In the final quarterfinal, tournament hosts Impala will take on Mwamba in a fixture that is sure to bring excitement under the floodlights. Both teams will be keen to make their mark in the tournament and challenge for a spot in the semifinals.

The tournament also features an exciting university category, where defending champions JKUAT will begin their campaign against Daystar Falcons. Rift Varsities will go head-to-head with USIU in the second quarterfinal, while Zetech Oaks will play Kabete Stallions in the third quarterfinal. Impala Boks will close the round by taking on KCA University in the fourth quarterfinal.

KCB's Elvis Olukusi (center) in action against Blak Blad at Dala Sevens. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

In the women’s category, scheduled for October 26 and November 2, defending champions Mwamba will clash with NYS Ladies in the first semi-final, while Impala Roans will face off against Northern Suburbs in the second semi-final. These teams are set to showcase the growing strength of women’s rugby in Kenya.

Impala Club Treasurer, Allan Wamanga, assured fans and players that preparations are in full swing to ensure a world-class experience. “We are excited to host you today as we draw closer to the tournament kick-off. Preparations are in full gear, the pitch is in pristine condition, and we are finalizing repairs on the stands and lights to ensure both fans and players enjoy a world-class experience,” Wamanga said during the draw ceremony.

The 2024 tournament has partnered with major sponsors, including Safaricom, Huawei, and Coca-Cola, to deliver a premier sporting event.

As the countdown to the 2024 Impala Floodlit Rugby Tournament begins, anticipation builds for another thrilling edition, with KCB aiming for yet another crown and a new crop of challengers hungry to dethrone them.