KCB Rugby team have received a major boost ahead of the Dala Sevens following the return of Shujaa playmaker Samuel Asati.
The bankers suffered a heartbreak at the Kakamega Sevens a fortnight ago, throwing a 12-0 lead to lose 17-12 to fast-rising Quins.
KCB Sevens' coach Dennis Mwanja believes the return of the diminutive half-back will give the side a massive boost as they chase their first trophy win of the season.
“After playing for Shujaa at the Olympics, Asati rested and has been training with us. We expect him to be sharp for the two days of intense rugby in Kisumu," the coach noted.
Joining Asati in the squad for the tournament will be Festus Shiasi, who was part of the squad that travelled to Paris but did not play.
They join the likes of Levi Amunga, Elvis Olukusi, Brian Wahinya and new signings Tyson Maina and Davis Nyaundi in a formidable side.
Shujaa co-captain Vincent Onyala will miss the tournament, owing to family commitments but is expected to be available for the Kabeberi Sevens next weekend at the RFUEA ground.
The bankers have a favourable record in Lakeside City— winning four times in 2004, 2014, 2019 and 2023.
Mwanja wants his charges to go one place better and make it five. "We got to the final in Kakamega and were in a good position to win but we were let down by the execution and lack of solid tactical plan in the second half. So we hope to be better in Kisumu,” said Mwanja.
The former Kenya Sevens international believes his charges can retain the overall crown despite the slow start to the campaign.
“We have four tournaments to go and the nature of Sevens is unpredictable. So if we can go on a deep run, then all is possible,” he added.
Mwanja said they have to improve their exit plays. “If you look at our performance in the final against Quins in Kakamega, our exit plays were a problem. We have rectified that in training and you will see an improvement," observed Mwanja.
Mwanja's charges are in Pool 'B' alongside Nondies, Blak Blad and Homeboyz.
“It's a tricky pool. We have to be switched on from the get-go and play our best from the opening match to the last.”
