Over 65 teams have confirmed participation for the Masaku Sevens slated for next month in Machakos.
The big turnout has seen the organisers introduce a third tier category known as ‘Emerging Masaku’ and will feature 20 teams. The move is aimed at accommodating the numbers and giving the fans an opportunity to enjoy the expansive field of teams in action. The teams for this category include, Tala, Eastlanders, Mount Kenya University, Ngong Comras, Kabete, Kenya School of Law, Machakos RFC, Impala academy and Mwamba Academy.
Others include—Fishborne, Kakamega, Kilunda, Makueni, Kitui and Kenya Methodist University.
The top tier competition will have 16 teams and will be led by defending champions Tabadamu. Kenya Cup teams expected for the event include national Sevens champions KCB, Homeboyz, Mwamba, Impala, Quins, Strathmore, Western Bulls and Kabras among others. Other top sides are expected from South Africa, England and Australia.
This year’s edition will encompass subsidiary competitions that will be held between June 30 and July 2, paving the way for the international festival of rugby from July 3-5.
The event organisers have this year increased the total prize money to Sh2m and re-branded the tournament to Masaku International Sevens, a name that truly reflects what will be on offer in Machakos over the five days.
Machakos County minister of tourism, sports and culture Faith Wathome promised to support for the event and revealed that they have put measures in place to cope with the expected number of visitors.
