KCB Seek Revenge Against Kabras Sugar in High-Stakes Kenya Cup Final

KCB Rugby Club will square it out with Kabras Sugar in a blockbuster Kenya Cup final set for May 9, 2026, at the ASK Showground, as the bankers eye a historic ninth title in what promises to be a fiercely contested showdown.

The highly anticipated encounter brings together two of the country’s top rugby powerhouses in a fixture that has steadily developed into one of the fiercest rivalries in Kenyan rugby.

For KCB, the final presents an opportunity not only to reclaim domestic glory but also to finally halt Kabras Sugar’s dominance in recent seasons.

Heading into the final, KCB has steadily evolved into a more balanced and competitive outfit, blending youthful energy with seasoned experience.

Throughout the campaign, the bankers have shown significant tactical improvement, resilience, and maturity in key matches.

Their growth was particularly evident during the regular season when they pushed Kabras Sugar to the limit in a thrilling and tightly contested 10-10 draw that was eventually disrupted by heavy rain.

That result sent a strong message across the league that KCB had developed into genuine title contenders capable of matching the defending champions blow for blow.

Having displayed consistency on both ends of the pitch, KCB now heads into the final with renewed belief and momentum, confident they can rise to the occasion on the biggest stage of the season.

The final also carries an emotional edge for the bankers, who are still haunted by their defeat in the 2024 Kenya Cup final. On that occasion, Kabras Sugar produced a dominant display to secure a convincing 29-5 victory over KCB.

That painful loss has remained a driving force behind KCB’s preparations this season, with players and technical staff determined to rewrite the script this time around.

The bankers are fully aware of the challenge ahead but believe they are far better equipped now to challenge the sugar millers.

Victory would hand KCB their ninth Kenya Cup crown and mark a significant milestone in the club’s rich rugby history.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Head Coach Andrew Amonde exuded confidence in his side’s preparation, mentality, and readiness for the challenge ahead.

“We have grown a lot as a team this season. The boys understand what is at stake, and we are ready to put in a complete performance. Kabras are a strong side, but we’ve shown we can match them, and now it’s about executing our game plan on the day,” said Amonde.

The tactician emphasised the importance of discipline, composure, and capitalising on scoring opportunities in what is expected to be a highly physical and tactical battle.

KCB’s chances will be significantly boosted by the return of several key sevens internationals who bring invaluable experience, explosiveness, and versatility to the squad.

Among those returning are Floyd Wabwire, George Ooro, Festus Shiasi, Samuel Asati, and Vincent Onyala, players renowned for their pace, creativity, and ability to change the course of a match in an instant.

Their inclusion is expected to strengthen KCB’s attacking options while also adding depth and flexibility to the team’s tactical setup.

The return of the sevens stars comes at a crucial time as the bankers seek to match Kabras Sugar’s intensity and physicality across the full 80 minutes.

Team captain Bob Muhati believes the squad is mentally prepared and fully focused on the task ahead as they chase domestic glory.

“This is a moment we have worked hard for all season. The boys are locked in, the energy in camp is right, and we know what Kabras brings. But we also know what we are capable of. It is about discipline, execution, and showing up for each other for the full 80 minutes. We want that title, and we are ready to fight for it,” noted Captain Bob Muhati.

Muhati’s leadership will be key in guiding the team through what is expected to be an emotionally charged and physically demanding encounter.

In preparation for the high-stakes encounter, the team departed for Kakamega on Tuesday, May 5, to set up camp and fine-tune their strategy ahead of the much-anticipated final.

The early arrival is aimed at allowing the players ample time to acclimatise, sharpen combinations, and focus entirely on the task ahead without distractions.

The technical bench has also used the training camp to work on set pieces, defensive organisation, and match-specific tactics tailored to counter Kabras Sugar’s strengths.

With both sides carrying strong ambitions into the final, fans can expect an intense, high-quality contest worthy of the Kenya Cup stage.

Kabras Sugar will be determined to defend their crown and continue their dominance, while KCB will be fueled by the desire for redemption and a return to the summit of Kenyan rugby.