Africa-Press – Kenya. Top Kenya Cup clubs strengthened their squads during the mid-season transfer window, which closed on December 31, as teams prepare for the resumption of the league on January 10.
Defending champions Kabras Sugar and former titleholders KCB Rugby were among the clubs that made notable additions, bringing in a mix of experienced and emerging players ahead of the second half of the season.
According to the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), KCB Rugby were among the most active teams in the window.
The club signed former Kenya Harlequins captain Sheldon Kahi and Richel Wangila as part of their efforts to reinforce the squad.
The Bankers also added Richard Liva, who joined from Impala RFC following a brief stint at the club.
Kabras Sugar, meanwhile, recruited Nick Opiyo from Uganda’s Walukuba, Levis Ochieng from Kisumu RFC, and Calistus Wanjala from Impala RFC.
The Sugar men also brought in 11 upcoming players, including Matrix Matangi. The 18-year-old captained Kisii to the Federation of East African Schools Sports Association (FEASSA) rugby 15s title and previously led Kisii School to three consecutive Nyanza Region rugby 15s championships.
Nondescripts RFC were also active during the window. Former Strathmore Leos captain Barnabas Owuor joined the Red Lions, adding experience to the Ngong Road-based side. He was joined by former Kenya Sevens (Shujaa) player Lamec Ambetsa, who arrived on loan from Kabras Sugar, and former Kenya Under-20 (Chipu) captain John Baraka, who joined on loan from Kisumu RFC. Brian Kipchirchir also moved to Nondescripts on loan from Kisumu.
In addition, Frank Aduda, Charlton Mokua, and Bill Abuom completed permanent moves to Nondescripts from Kenya Harlequin.
Elsewhere, Andrew Matoka returned to Strathmore Leos after his spell at Impala RFC. KRU Championship side Mwamba RFC also strengthened their squad, signing Gideon Makumi, Martin Oyugi, Dominic Simiti, Atephen Arunga, and Abel Matanda. The club further added eight upcoming players as part of its push to return to the Kenya Cup.
Dan Angwech moved to Kisumu RFC from Kabras Sugar, while long-serving South Coast Pirates player Brighton Omondi joined Kenya Harlequin.
Menengai Oilers, who are currently second on the Kenya Cup standings, did not make any signings during the mid-season transfer window.
