After enjoying their most successful season yet by winning the Rugby Premiership and the National Sevens title, Black Pirates will be out to show those triumphs were no flash in the pan by defending both trophies as the 2018/2019 Uganda Rugby Premiership kicks off this
Saturday with five fixtures.
With Pirates only adding Eric Mula from Rhinos to their roster, head coach Bobby Musinguzi is confident his side can cement the recently established winning formula.
“Despite our rivals obtaining many additions, I think we have a quality team to successfully defend the league. We have quality substitutes. We will definitely defend the league,” said Musinguzi, whose side start their title defence away to newcomers Walukuba in Jinja.
However, this season promises to be even tougher as several teams have been busy with transfer business during the off-season. Pirates’ immediate rival Betway Kobs, the side that beat them a week ago to reclaim the Uganda Cup, has made seven signings including; Pius Ogeno, Robert Aziku, Fred Ochan Joshua Oboi and Ronald Musajjagulanyago. They proved themselves ready when they spurred Jobs to a 21-14 win over Pirates in the Uganda Cup. Kobs also kick off away against the Rams at Makerere Ground.
Hima Cement Heathens is another revived side that will be hoping to claim silverware this season. Eleven new players will be donning their jersey plotting to reinstate their winning ways.
“I have belief in all our new players because they are experienced and they are ready to do the job. I am sure we shall have a successful season,” said Heathens captain Michael Wokorach.