As the curtains came down on the 2025 Prinsloo 7s at Nakuru Athletic Club, a select group of players stood above the rest with outstanding performances that not only powered their teams forward but also left a lasting impression on fans and Two5four selectors alike.
At the heart of Strathmore Leos’ title defence was Stanslus Shikoli, whose intelligence and positional awareness proved decisive in the final. Shikoli’s try pouncing on an overthrown KCB lineout set the tone for the Leos’ 24-7 triumph. His presence was felt across the park, especially in the breakdown and contact areas.
Barnabas Owuor, also of Strathmore, was another quiet engine behind the team’s seamless run. His discipline in defence and quick decision-making with ball in hand allowed Leos to maintain structure under pressure. Owuor played a key linking role among the forwards, and while he may not have had the headline moments like Mola, his importance was undeniable in the buildup phases that led to tries. He typified the kind of work that doesn’t always make the highlights but wins tournaments.
Over at KCB, Vincent Onyala proved why he wears the armband for Shujaa. The dynamic back delivered a moment of magic when it mattered most, scoring the winner against Menengai Oilers in the semis to guide the bankers into the final. His leadership and vision sparked several attacks, and his ability to beat defenders in tight spaces remains unmatched.
For KCB’s tempo to tick, however, Samwel Asati was the metronome. The half-back controlled the game’s rhythm with his pinpoint distribution, clever box kicks, and a calmness that helped KCB weather storms in tricky encounters. Asati’s ability to find space and his understanding with Onyala gave KCB a lethal edge, especially in their quarterfinal and semifinal against Oilers where he scored the opener. His all-round performance earned him a deserving spot in the tournament’s elite XV.
Nakuru RFC’s Cyprian Ombaso was one of the standout performers in the home team’s charge.Since landing in Nakuru from Mmust RFC, it’s safe to say the 22 year old fkyhalf has found his touch,if the recent performance is anything to go by.
Ombaso contributed 3 tries and 6 conversions, helping Wanyore claim big scalps like Kabras and Quins. Ombaso’s consistency also dates back to Driftwood 7s where he had two trys and five successful conversions, showing he is no one-tournament wonder.
Rising star Dan Kipchirchir announced himself fully on the big stage, scoring six tries for Menengai Oilers. The former Western Bulls utility back continues to mature into a top-tier player, with his speed and footwork causing havoc for defenders throughout the weekend.
But the crown jewel was Victor Odhiambo Mola. The explosive winger tallied eight tries in Nakuru, including a dazzling brace in the final. His raw pace, intelligent lines, and confidence under pressure earned him a clean sweep of individual honors. Finals MVP, Top Try Scorer, and Top Points Scorer.
Focus now shifts to the third leg of national Sevens circuit, Christie 7s set for 16th-17th August in Nairobi.
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