Excitement is building for the 2024-2025 Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Championship season, which begins on Saturday with exiting matches across the country.

The league, featuring 12 competitive teams, promises high-octane action, with eight university sides set to showcase their talent.

Among the headline clashes is a showdown between three-time Kenya Cup champions Mean Machine and former Kenya Cup side Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) at Masinde Muliro University grounds.

Last season, Machine suffered a walkover against MMUST due to technical issues. Both teams are now determined to start the season on a high note, with Machine keen to settle the score and MMUST aiming to extend their dominance.

Another highlight will be the varsity derby between Daystar Falcons and USIU Martials.

Daystar, who narrowly missed promotion to the Kenya Cup last season, are intent on setting the pace for a successful campaign.

“We are ready for the new season. It was heartbreaking to fail to make it back to the Kenya Cup last season despite coming close but we have regrouped and rearing to go again,” said MMUST tactician John Asila.

KRU Championship Fixtures

CUEA Monks v Tum Marines– CUEA Pavilion, 3pm

Homeboyz v Zetech Oaks -RFUEA Grounds, 1pm

MMUST v Mean Machine-MMUST Grounds, 3pm

Daystar Falcons v USIU Martials -Daystar University, 3pm

Western Bulls v UOE Trojans -Bullring Kakamega, 3pm

JKUAT Cougars v Mombasa -JKUAT Juja, 3pm