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Rugby Union unveils sevens circuit calendar ahead of 2025 season kickoff

Rugby Union unveils sevens circuit calendar ahead of 2025 season kickoff
KCB’s Elvis Olukusi escapes a challenge from Strathmore Leos during a past Kenya Cup match. PHOTO/ @SportPicha/X

 Kenyan rugby fans have every reason to celebrate as the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) officially released the highly anticipated calendar for the 2025 National Sevens Circuit.

Unveiled on Monday, June 30, 2025, the announcement sets the stage for another high-energy rugby season featuring top clubs from across the country.

The action-packed season kicks off in July and builds to a spectacular conclusion at the Safari Sevens in October.

The first whistle will sound at the Driftwood Sevens in Mombasa on July 26–27, 2025, igniting a thrilling journey through Kenya’s top rugby hotspots.

The tour then moves to Nakuru’s Prinsloo Sevens (August 2–3), followed by the renowned Christie Sevens in Nairobi (August 16–17).

Celebrations continue with the Embu Sevens (August 23–24), before heading into the high-stakes Kabeberi Sevens (September 6–7) and the much-anticipated Dala Sevens in Kisumu (September 13–14).

Finally, the circuit reaches its climax at the Safari Sevens (October 10–12), promising international flair, top-tier action, and unforgettable fan experiences.

“This year’s circuit promises nonstop thrills, big hits, and world-class talent,” KRU said in a statement. “As we charge through towns and cities, we invite fans to show up, suit up in club colours, and experience the power of Kenyan rugby.”

The launch takes place against the backdrop of significant organisational changes within the KRU. Earlier on Monday, June 30, 2025, the board announced a sweeping reform package aimed at professionalising the sport, elevating youth development, and strengthening governance.

Central to these reforms is the transformation of the long-standing Eric Shirley Shield (ESS) into a new Under-20 league for Kenya Cup clubs, which will run alongside the senior competition.

Match-day squads will include up to five over-age players, restricted to three on the field at a time, to support the development of younger athletes returning from injury.

“The intended change of the ESS format to an Under-20 league… aligns to KRU’s development pathway and international competition standards,” explained Director Mukabane.

She added that the reforms include revising the union’s constitution to shift authority away from the Chairperson and towards regional leaders. “We are very keen on promoting equity and broader accountability across the sport,” Mukabane affirmed.

With clubs adjusting to the new league structure and fans already buzzing with excitement, the 2025 Sevens season promises to be bigger, faster, and more impactful than ever. All eyes are on Mombasa as the Driftwood Sevens kick off what promises to be a landmark year for Kenyan rugby

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