By Mahlon Lichuma
The Impala Sports Club will come alive this Saturday night when KCB Rugby lock horns with defending champions Menengai Oilers in a highly anticipated Impala Floodlit quarterfinal showdown set for 7:30 p.m.
The clash pits last year’s Floodlit winners Menengai Oilers going head on against the most successful side in the tournament’s history KCB RFC. With both sides boasting rich form and powerful lineups, fans can expect a fierce encounter under the Ngong Road lights.
KCB’s interim head coach Andrew Amonde has named a star-studded starting squad led by co-captains Felix Ojoo and Vincent Onyala, as the Lions aim to reclaim the crown they lost to Oilers in the previous edition.
The lineup features seasoned campaigners such as hooker Elvis Olukusi, halfback Samuel Asati, and playmaker Brian Wahinya, who recently earned a Dubai 7s call-up.
Speedster Elvis Namusasi starts at fullback, while Tyson Maina and William Opaka provide firepower on the wings. The front row of Patrick Ouko, Fidel Maina, and Eric Miheso promises muscle in the scrums, with Emmanuel Silungi and John Aswani adding stability in the engine room.
On the bench, Amonde has depth and experience with the likes of James Chieng, Andy Cole, and Austin Sikutwa ready to make an impact when called upon.
The Lions head into this fixture buoyed by their dominance in the just-concluded 2025 National 7s Circuit, where they lifted the overall title, and their strong display at the 27th Safari 7s. But they face an Oilers side full of confidence, looking to defend their Floodlit title after clinching it for the first time last year.
This quarterfinal promises to be more than just a game; it’s a statement match between two of Kenya’s rugby powerhouses. For KCB, it’s about redemption and reclaiming lost glory. For the Oilers, it’s about proving that last year’s triumph was no fluke.
Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. under the Impala Sports Club floodlights and with two giants colliding, sparks are certain to fly.
English