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The Eric Shirley Shield (ESS) Cup is set to be reformatted into purely an U20 competition from the start of next season.
The Kenya Rugby Union are set to make a major shake up to the current Eric Shirley Shield (ESS) Cup from the start of next season by making it a Kenya Cup U20 Competition.
This change was announced on Wednesday afternoon during the unveiling of Harriet Okach as the new chairperson of the union, replacing Alexander ‘Sasha’ Mutai, who resigned earlier this month following a Special General Meeting held to discuss the federation’s affairs.
The decision, according to KRU officials, is intended to address a developmental gap for Kenya's youth rugby players, particularly the national U20 side known as Chipu.
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“We noticed that our U20 team doesn't get enough playtime, largely because we depend on club call-ups,” said Moses Mukabane, the Union’s 15s Rugby Director.
“With the U20 league, we can consolidate talent and give these players a consistent platform to grow.”
Mukabane further explained that many of the ESS fixtures in recent seasons were being forfeited due to clubs’ inability to consistently field second teams. “Not all clubs can manage two full squads per game day,” he added.
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With discussions still going on, there is a possibility that the ESS will become a hybrid U20 league as well.
While the primary focus will be on youth development, clubs will be allowed to include five or six senior players to maintain depth and continuity within senior squads.
“This new format offers a structured development pathway for future stars while maintaining competitive integrity. But it is not final. We are still gathering ideas to make the product stronger,” Mukabane said.
In addition to developmental goals, financial considerations have influenced the proposed changes.
The Union hopes that by reducing logistical burdens on clubs and focusing on youth, the restructured competition will attract better sponsorship opportunities and long-term partnerships.
“The way we will structure it is to reduce the financial burden to the clubs,” said Mukabane. “It will become more lucrative for partnerships.”
Discussions are still ongoing between the KRU and participating clubs regarding zoning and operational logistics, with the aim of finalizing a model that works for all stakeholders.
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What is the ESS Cup?
Established in 1962, the Eric Shirley Shield has served as Kenya’s second-tier rugby competition, primarily featuring reserve sides from Kenya Cup clubs. It has long been seen as a critical stepping stone for players aspiring to break into the senior ranks.
Recent champions include Menengai Oilers II, who won the 2024/25 title, and perennial contenders like KCB II, Impala II, and Homeboyz II.
However, the new U20 structure would a strategic pivot towards a more streamlined and youth-centered model aimed at preparing Kenya’s next generation of rugby talent.
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