The 2019 Impala Floodlit champions KCB will begin their title defence against Kenya Harlequins in the first quarter-final of this year's edition to be held at the Impala Club on October 29.
This was revealed during the tournament draw held at the Impala Club on Sunday. In other matches in the club category, Nondies will face fellow championship side and hosts Impala RFC.
The third quarter-final will feature a Nakuru derby, with 2022 Kenya Cup finalists Menengai Oilers facing neighbours Nakuru RFC. The last quarter-final in the clubs’ competition will see Strathmore Leos face Blak Blad RFC from Kenyatta University.
The women's competitions which will take place on November 5 and 12 will see hosts Impala take on Maseno University, with the Northern Suburbs playing RuckIt.
Defending universities champions Strathmore Leos II, will take on USIU in the first quarter-finals, with Kenya Cup side, Catholic Monks facing Blak Blad II. The Daystar Falcons take on Mean Machine with the Kenya U20 national side facing Nakuru Universities combined.
Speaking on the tournament preparations during the draw ceremony, Impala Chairman Charles Ngovi expressed excitement towards hosting the tournament and said the final preparations are underway to ensure the players compete at a conducive environment.
“As we draw a step closer to the tournament kick off, preparations are in full gear, the pitch is in pristine condition, we are finalising repairs on the stands and lights to ensure that both fans and players enjoy a world class experience,” Ngovi said.
Tournament director Daniel Ndaba said: “We will also have special exhibition matches, with the veterans playing on the first weekend and Nairobi School facing Lenana School on the second weekend."
He added: “We have so far partnered with Tusker and Capital FM to ensure we deliver a world class experience. There shall be an entertainment village where fans can enjoy food and drink as well as watch international matches, including the Simbas at the World Cup repechage and the autumn series tours.”
