•Olando warned his players that the game will not be a walk in the park.
•He noted that they also strengthened the team by signing 10 experienced players.
Image: ANGWENYI GICHANA
Kisumu RFC are ready for the Kenya Cup return on Saturday, according to interim coach Fabian Olando.
Speaking ahead of their 2023-24 season opener against Kenya Cup reigning champions Kabras Sugar, Olando warned his players that the game will not be a walk in the park. The game will be played at Kakamega Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) grounds.
“I know for sure it will be a tough game but we are going for a win. Kabras should prepare for a long day,” said a confident Olando.
The former Kenyan international added: “We had a good pre-season and I want to thank the management for this because we participated in the National 7’s Circuit and Lake Victoria 15’s tournament which helped us prepare for the 2023-24 season. We started our pre-season early and we have covered a lot.”
He noted that they also strengthened the team by signing 10 experienced players. “We have strong teams for Kenya Cup and ESS. In the KRU Championship, we only had one team but we now have two that are ready for the season,” he added.
Some of the club’s new signings are John Ochar (back), Nelson Omukaba (forward), Kevin Omondi (prop), Steve Otieno (lock), Beverly Okumu (back), Maurice Osano (centre), Stephen Kabasa (fly-half), Reinhart Aloro (back-row), and Cornel Byron (lock).
He revealed that his main target is to maintain their Kenya Cup status. “We want to take one game at a time and stay in Kenya Cup,” he noted.
Olando has also announced his retirement from the game.
“It has never been easy but the reality has checked in. I don’t have a long story but I started early and I have finished early. Rugby is family, and will always be. No come back. It was always a pleasure to work with my teammates, coaches, opponents, and fans. I really appreciate but I’m done with playing. Thanks all,” he posted on Facebook.
Speaking on his retirement, Olando said: “Yes. It is official I have retired from playing. I will now focus on another route which is coaching.”
Olando took over from Lawrence Buyachi who resigned two months ago. Buyachi, the former Kenya 15’s international, joined Menengai Oilers as a strength and conditioning coach.
Kisumu RFC’s secretary Jaycox Mwavali said they are still looking for a coach. “We hope to recruit a coach before the season starts but I don’t want to give timelines,” said Mwavali.
Ends