KCB eye title as debutants DCI keep hope alive
Having come close in the last Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) playoffs, Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) are looking to go one better and clinch this year’s women’s title when this season’s playoffs throw off on Friday at the Kasarani Indoor Arena.
Under experienced tactician Japheth Munala, and a beefed up squad, having enlisted some of the league’s elite players as the season began, the bankers are equal title contenders as holders Kenya Prisons, record champions Kenya Pipeline and debutants Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
The team has lost the services of centre Lorine Chebet who has decamped to Prisons and is set to miss the playoffs altogether. The tactician has, however, brought in 18-year-old Kesogon Secondary centre Belinda Barasa to fill the gap left by Chebet.
Barasa will vie for a starting place against veteran national team player Violet Makuto, Modesta Chepchirchir and Mildred Cherop.
“She is one of the best players at the KCB Academy in Kesogon Kitale. I knew we needed to sign a good player to avert a crisis and she was the best placed for this. Her confidence and skill on the court is amazing and we expect her to deliver if given the chance to play even at this level,” said Munala on Barasa’s quality.
KCB finished tied top with 18 points and while admitting it will be no walk in the park, Munala believes they stand a chance of lifting the title.
The bankers open their title campaign against DCI who are making their maiden appearance in the playoffs.
