The much-anticipated draw for the 2024 Dala 7s has set the stage for an exciting and fiercely competitive weekend of rugby. The Kenya Harlequin (Quins), who currently sit at the top of the National Sevens Circuit standings, have been placed in what is widely regarded as the “pool of death.” This challenging Pool A will see the Quins face off against strong contenders Menengai Oilers, Strathmore Leos, and Mwamba RFC in the third leg of the circuit, scheduled for August 17-18 at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium.
Quins in the “Pool of Death”
Kenya Harlequin enters the Dala 7s with momentum, having recently secured the 2024 Ingo 7s title and finishing as runners-up at the Christie 7s. However, their quest for continued dominance in the circuit will not be easy. Placed in Pool A, the Quins will face some of the toughest teams in the competition. Menengai Oilers, a team known for their speed and tactical play, will provide a stern test. Strathmore Leos, another formidable opponent, has consistently performed well in the sevens format, while Mwamba RFC, with their physical style of play, will look to upset the circuit leaders.
The “pool of death” label is well-deserved, as each match in Pool A promises to be a battle. For the Quins, advancing from this group will require a combination of tactical acumen, discipline, and sheer determination. Fans can expect high-intensity rugby as these top-tier teams clash in pursuit of glory.
Key Battles in Pool B
Pool B is equally competitive, with KCB Rugby, the Ingo 7s finalists, leading the group. KCB will be aiming to build on their recent success and cement their status as one of the circuit’s top teams. They will face Nondies RFC, a team known for their resilience, Kenyatta University’s Blak Blad, who have shown flashes of brilliance this season, and Homeboyz RFC, a side capable of producing match-winning performances on their day.
KCB Rugby’s experience and depth make them the favorites in this pool, but with the unpredictable nature of sevens rugby, upsets are always on the cards. Pool B’s matchups will be closely watched, as each team battles to secure a spot in the knockout stages.
Hosts Kabras RFC Lead Pool C
In Pool C, hosts Kabras RFC will be looking to capitalize on their home advantage. Fresh off a strong performance in the Ingo 7s, where they finished third, Kabras RFC will face Kabete Stallions, Kisumu RFC, and MMUST Rugby. The hosts are expected to dominate their pool, but they will need to be wary of Kabete Stallions, a team that has been steadily improving, and MMUST Rugby, who have the potential to cause an upset.
Kabras RFC’s physicality and structured play are their strengths, and they will aim to control the pace of the game in each of their matches. For the hosts, the Dala 7s presents an opportunity to gain valuable points in the overall circuit standings and build momentum for the remaining legs of the season.
Pool D: Nakuru RFC Faces University Challenge
Pool D features Nakuru RFC, the only non-university team in the group. They will be up against CUEA Monks, Daystar Falcons, and Zetech University Oaks. Nakuru RFC’s experience in the sevens format gives them an edge, but the youthful energy and unpredictability of their university opponents could make this pool highly competitive.
CUEA Monks and Daystar Falcons have both shown they can compete at a high level, while Zetech University Oaks will be looking to build on their recent success in the Division II category of the Kakamega Ingo 7s. This pool is one to watch, as it could produce some of the most exciting and unpredictable matches of the tournament.
Division II: Emerging Teams Battle for Supremacy
The Division II competition at the Dala 7s will be equally thrilling, with several emerging teams looking to make their mark. Kabarak University, the Ingo 7s runner-up, leads Pool A and will face KCA University, Western Bulls, and Tororo RFC. Pool B will see a close contest between Sigalagala National Polytechnic, Northern Suburbs, Bungoma RFC, and MKU Thika.
In Pool C, TUM Marines, AP Warriors, Vihiga Granites, and Nandi Bears will go head-to-head, while Pool D features Embu RFC, Homabay Rugby, Mbale RFC, and Siaya. The final pool, Pool E, includes Shamberere TTI, NYS Spades, Mean Machine, and Kifaru RFC. With so many talented teams in Division II, the competition will be fierce as these teams aim to climb the ranks and challenge for promotion to Division I.
The Road Ahead in the National Sevens Circuit
The Dala 7s marks the third leg of the 2024 National Sevens Circuit, following the Christie 7s and Kakamega Ingo 7s. After a brief hiatus, teams are rested and recharged, ready to resume their quest for the circuit title. The results from the Dala 7s will be crucial in determining the standings as the circuit progresses, with each team vying for valuable points and the opportunity to be crowned the 2024 National Sevens Circuit champions.
As the circuit heats up, rugby fans can look forward to more thrilling matches, intense rivalries, and standout performances. The Dala 7s promises to deliver all this and more, as Kenya’s top rugby teams battle it out for supremacy in one of the most prestigious competitions in the country
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