Stanbic’s Pirates make history despite Enterprise Cup Final defeat to Kabras

June 1, 2026 in Companies by Editor

Stanbic Black Pirates’ historic run in Kenya’s prestigious Enterprise Cup ended in defeat to Kabras RFC, but the Ugandan side returned home with pride after becoming the first foreign club in more than 50 years to reach the tournament final.

 

Stanbic Black Pirates’ dream run in the 2026 Enterprise Cup came to an end on June 30 after a spirited performance against Kenyan champions Kabras RFC in the final at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi.

Despite falling 25-12 in a fiercely contested East African showdown, the Ugandan side earned widespread admiration for becoming the first foreign club in more than 50 years to reach the final of Kenya’s prestigious knockout competition.

Playing in chilly Nairobi conditions, the Pirates showed resilience and determination throughout the encounter against one of the region’s most formidable rugby teams.

Kabras made a strong start, crossing over for the opening try in the fifth minute to establish an early lead. The Pirates responded positively and were rewarded in the 17th minute when they touched down to narrow the deficit to 7-5 and announce their intentions.

The Kenyan side, however, maintained territorial dominance and added two more tries before halftime. Although both conversion attempts were missed, Kabras carried a comfortable 15-7 advantage into the break.

The second half began with both teams raising the intensity, but it was Kabras who struck first. The hosts added two quick tries within the opening 18 minutes of the restart to extend their lead to 25-7 and put themselves firmly in control of the contest.

Searching for inspiration, the Pirates coaching staff turned to the bench and introduced Haruna Muhammad. The substitution immediately injected energy into the Ugandan side’s attack, with Muhammad’s pace and creativity helping to unlock the Kabras defence.

The momentum shift culminated in a well-worked try finished by Allan Karuhanga, reducing the deficit to 25-12 and briefly reviving hopes of a late comeback.

The Pirates continued to battle relentlessly until the final whistle, but Kabras held firm to secure victory and claim the 2026 Enterprise Cup title.

Speaking after the match, Pirates Head Coach Marvin Odongo praised his players for their commitment against high-quality opposition.

“We faced a quality side today, but I am proud of the character our players showed. They never stopped competing and continued to fight until the very end. There are lessons to take from this match, and we will use them as motivation going forward,” Odongo said.

While the result denied the Pirates a historic title, the Kampala-based club leaves Nairobi with its reputation enhanced after a landmark campaign that showcased the growing strength of Ugandan rugby on the regional stage.

Their appearance in the final broke new ground for Ugandan clubs and demonstrated that the country’s leading teams can compete with East Africa’s best.

Pirates star Timothy Kisiga said the team’s focus would now quickly shift back to domestic duties, where major ambitions remain firmly intact.

The Stanbic-sponsored side has already secured its place in the 2026 Uganda Rugby Premiership semifinals and will now prepare for a crucial showdown against Heathens Rugby Club as they continue their pursuit of national honours.

Although the Enterprise Cup trophy slipped from their grasp, the Pirates’ historic journey has added another chapter to Ugandan rugby’s growing regional influence and provided valuable experience that could prove vital in the battles ahead.