Rugby Super Series 2024 dates, fixtures, venues announced

The Kenya Rugby Union has officially announced the return of the Rugby Super Series after a ten-year hiatus.

The 2024 edition will showcase four men’s teams and two women’s teams, with the men’s teams representing Kenya Cup Clubs and the women’s teams comprising members of the National Lionesses’ squad.

The men’s teams will be named Buffaloes, Cheetahs, Lions, and Rhinos, while the women’s teams will be Eagles and Jaguars.

Details regarding team selections, coaching staff, and club compositions will be disclosed at a later date. The men’s tournament format will involve each team playing against the other three over the first three match days held at different venues: KCB Sports Club in Ruaraka, Nairobi; Nakuru Athletics Club in Nakuru; and The Bull Ring in Kakamega.

The top two teams will advance to the final, while the remaining two will compete for the last two positions at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi.

The women’s matches will occur in Nairobi, with the winners determined by the aggregate score over two games. All matches on any given day will be held at a single venue to maximize excitement and engagement for both players and fans alike.

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The Rugby Super Series 2024 is scheduled to take place on four Saturdays (4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th of May 2024), with matches planned for Nairobi on the first and last weekends and in Nakuru and Kakamega in between.

This tournament has a rich history and has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Kenya XV’s rugby. We are thrilled to bring it back to life and to provide a platform for our top players to showcase their talent on the national stage once again.

“For the first time, two Women’s teams will be included as part of ensuring that the game is developed equitably.

The primary aims of the tournament are: To elevate the standards of play for our top players and to provide them with a clear pathway for selection to the National XV’s team. Manage the tournament in a professional and commercially viable manner. Our goal is to upgrade the participating franchises to fully-fledged professional teams within the next two years. This will enhance the quality of competition and produce a better prepared National XV’s whose ultimate aim is to qualify for the Rugby World Cup.

“To create an environment for family entertainment that will attract more fans to the Rugby Super Series. Beyond the action on the field, we envision a vibrant atmosphere filled with excitement, music, and activities for fans of all ages to enjoy. Our goal is to make the Rugby Super Series a must-attend event on the Kenyan sporting calendar,” he stated.

“In conclusion, the re-launch of the Rugby Super Series signifies a new era for Kenyan rugby, characterised by professionalism, excitement, and growth. We invite all rugby fans and other stakeholders and, in particular the Media, to join us in this journey. Let the games begin!” he added.