Strathmore out to defend Ruff n Tuff 7s title as draw sets stage for July showdown

Eight of Kenya's leading community rugby clubs will battle for top honours in the annual sevens competition organised by Nondescripts RFC, with this year's edition expected to attract about 1,000 fans following the success of the inaugural tournament, which drew more than 700 spectators.

Strathmore headline Pool A alongside Blak Blad, Kenya Harlequins and hosts Nondescripts RFC, while last year's runners-up Mwamba have been drawn in Pool B together with Nakuru RFC, Impala RFC and tournament debutants Daystar Falcons, who replace USIU.

Tournament director Peris Mukoko Wanyaga said the competition continues to provide a vital platform for community clubs and local talent.

"All of the clubs taking part are community-based clubs," she said, adding that the tournament was created to showcase the quality of rugby outside the traditional elite competitions.

Nondescripts RFC chairman Richard Muturi said this year's event is particularly significant as the club marks 103 years since its establishment, making it the oldest rugby club in Kenya and East and Central Africa.

"As you know, Nondies is the oldest club in the country. We are celebrating 103 years of rugby this year in Kenya," said Muturi.

He added that the inaugural tournament proved its value by exposing players to professional opportunities abroad.

"One of the key challenges that we've been having is that a lot of the talent we see today comes from community clubs. We wanted to create a platform to showcase that talent and prove that we have players capable of making the national team," he said.

Organisers expect another fiercely contested tournament, with Strathmore seeking to retain the trophy after edging Mwamba in last year's final. The quality of competition is expected to remain high, with many of the participating players representing top Kenyan clubs and several having earned national team call-ups.

Beyond the men's competition, this year's tournament will also feature a women's exhibition match between Kenya Harlequins and Mwamba, a move aimed at promoting women's rugby in the country.

"The two clubs are the heartbeat of women's rugby in Kenya. Their contribution to the growth of the women's game cannot be overstated," said Wanyaga.

Action will kick off at 8.30am and run throughout the day before the final at 6pm, with fans also set to enjoy live entertainment from various DJs.