Mwamba's Steve Sakari has joined Kabras for the upcoming 2021/22 Kenya Cup season.
The burly back-rower, who is currently with the Kenya Simbas in South Africa on tour, trained with the sugarmillers before departure and will link up with his brother, Dan Sikuta, for the new season — which kicks off on Saturday.
Chairman Philip Jalango said signing Sakari is key in creating depth in the 35-man squad.
"He is a young robust player who can play all three positions in the back row and we look forward to him donning the jersey once he comes back from national duty next month,” said Jalango.
The spine of the team that has done duty for the past three years remains intact with the likes of Ephraim Oduor, Joseph Odero, George Nyambua, Eugene Sifuna, Brian Juma and Sikuta in the forwards while in the backs, Brian Tanga, Jone Kubu and Derrick Ashiundu will be key.
Jalango was excited about the start of the season despite losing 28-25 to KCB in the Kenya Cup final — for the fifth year running — insisting that the hunger to win the coveted title is still intact.
"We are motivated as ever to go and win the league crown. We had a good pre-season and we are relishing the challenge," added Jalango.
South Africa's Jerome Muller remains head coach and has been joined by compatriot Qondani Carlos Katywa who will be the forwards' coach.
Katywa, played for Graeme College, earning over 50 caps, and also represented Eastern Province. He had a short stint in England and returned to South Africa where he joined Sharks Academy.
He also played for Rovers Rugby Club before calling it quits. He has coached Border U/19 and U/20 teams, the University of Fort Hare before joining Varsity Shield side Rhodes where he served as head coach since 2017.
Kabras open their campaign against Blak Blad at Kakamega showground with matches against Nakuru RFC, Mwamba and Impala following in quick succession before the Christmas and New Year break.