Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Chairperson Harriet Okach has announced that the Eric Shirley Shield (ESS) will undergo a major transformation in the 2025/26 season, with the competition set to become an Under 20 league.
Speaking during a press conference at the RFUEA Grounds, Okach stated that the decision was aimed at strengthening the Kenya U20 national team, Chipu, by providing a consistent platform for youth development.
ESS approval
“It has been approved and will be adopted from next season. We’ve seen the promise in Chipu, but there is still a gap. With the U20 league, we will be able to bridge that gap and have a stronger pool for national team call-ups,” said Okach.
KRU Director Moses Mukabane elaborated further, explaining that the current format of the ESS had been weakened by frequent walkovers, diminishing its competitive value.
“We’ve seen ESS watered down over the past three years due to walkovers. That’s why we’ve been engaging clubs on the way forward,” said Mukabane.
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“This new direction will reduce the burden on clubs and make the league more lucrative. We’re considering a hybrid model, where up to five or six senior players can be included per team. It’s not final, and we are open to ideas from stakeholders.”
Mukabane emphasized that while the league will now serve as a development platform, it will still retain its connection to the Kenya Cup, and operational aspects will be fine-tuned in collaboration with clubs.
The league is scheduled to kick off in November.
