Kabras RFC redefining to keep their mojo, says Katywa

Speaking after the conclusion of the league phase ahead of the semifinals, Katywa said the campaign presented a different challenge compared to their previous title-winning runs.

Kabras are chasing a fifth consecutive Kenya Cup crown, but the coach noted that the current squad is at a different stage compared to past seasons.

“Remember we have just done three and four in a row—winning the Kenya Cup four times in a row—but it was in different phases in terms of our players’ time at the club and their age group,” said Katywa.

He explained that managing player fitness and energy levels became a key concern, with several squad members reaching the peak of their careers.

“This was a season where we knew that some of our players were at the peak of their age and we knew it was going to be difficult because the players would be running low on energy,” he added.

Katywa also pointed out the psychological challenge of maintaining hunger within a team that has enjoyed sustained success in recent years.

“And also we knew we were going to have a lot of comfort zone mentality, meaning guys were going to think everything was going to be easy,” he said.

To address this, the Kabras technical bench and leadership group emphasized a cautious, match-by-match approach throughout the season.

“Our target as the technical team and the leadership group was to take every game as it comes.”

On the pitch, Kabras adjusted their style of play to cope with the season's demands, moving away from their traditionally physical approach.

“We also changed quite a lot of things even in our playing time, moving away from quite a lot of physicality and trying to use a little bit of flair,” Katywa noted.

The tactical shift appears to have paid off, with Kabras finishing top of the standings and heading into the playoffs as favourites once again.

Kabras are now among four teams awaiting the semifinal draw, alongside KCB Rugby, Menengai Oilers and Nondescripts.

The draw, set to be conducted later this month, will determine the match-ups as the race for the Kenya Cup title enters its decisive stage.