Kenya Harlequin’s build-up to this weekends Kabeberi 7s has been thrown into disarray, with players threatening to boycott the tournament over unpaid dues.
The Ngong Road-based side, who are the defending champions of the National Sevens Circuit, have not resumed training since the Embu 7s, raising fresh doubts about their preparedness for this weekend’s assignment. With only a day left before action kicks off, players have confirmed that no sessions have taken place.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, one player revealed the growing frustration within the squad.
“We have not trained since Embu and yet we are expected to play at Kabeberi. Some of us are owed up to two months in salaries and unpaid training allowances. The situation is bad, and most of the boys are no longer motivated,” the player told Two5four Rugby.
The discontent has further been fueled by questions over the proceeds of the recently concluded Christie 7s, which the club hosted at RFUEA Grounds. Players are demanding accountability from the leadership, accusing officials of failing to honor their commitments despite the successful staging of the event.
“Where did the money from Christie 7s go? We are tired of empty promises. Every time we are asked to sacrifice, but nothing changes. The players feel let down by the leadership,” added the source.
Quins head into Kabeberi as defending circuit champions, but the internal wrangles threaten to overshadow their performance and derail their podium finish campaign.
The crisis highlights the broader challenges facing rugby clubs in Kenya, where financial instability continues to impact player welfare and performance. With the Kabeberi 7s just a day away, the ball is now in the leadership’s court to salvage the situation and prevent an embarrassing boycott.
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