The holiday slumber is over. The heavy hits, the muddy tackles, and the adrenaline of the Kenya Cup return this Saturday, January 10, as the country’s premier rugby league enters its decisive phase. All eyes are on the brewing rivalry between the unbeaten Kabras Sugar and the tactical masterminds of KCB Rugby Club.

The league took a break in December for the festive season, but strength and conditioning coaches have kept players busy. As Matchday 6 kicks off, the table is taking shape, and the pretenders are being separated from the contenders.

The Nakuru Test

The headline fixture sees KCB Rugby travel to the Rift Valley to face Top Fry Nakuru RFC at the Nakuru Athletic Club. KCB, currently second on the log, are chasing a fourth consecutive win.

• The KCB Strategy: The Bankers have been clinical, relying on the kicking boot of Darwin Mukidza and a suffocating defense that has conceded the fewest tries in the league. A win in Nakuru—notoriously a difficult hunting ground—would send a message to Kabras.
• Nakuru's Pride: "Wanyore" have struggled with consistency, but at home, they play with a fervent pride. They will look to drag KCB into a physical, forward-dominated arm wrestle.

Kabras Sugar: The Kakamega Juggernaut

Meanwhile, defending champions Kabras Sugar host Kenya Harlequin at the Kakamega Showground. Kabras have been scoring for fun, averaging 40 points per game. Their South African-influenced expansive play is a joy to watch, but Quins have improved defensively under Paul Murunga.

The Relegation Scramble

At the bottom, Catholic Monks and Homeboyz Rugby are fighting for survival. Every bonus point now counts. The resumption of the league also marks the beginning of the selection window for the Kenya Simbas ahead of the international season. For players, Saturday is not just about club points; it is an audition for the national jersey.