THE National Rugby Federation (RRF) is struggling to raise sponsorship for this year’s national rugby league. The league officially gets underway next Saturday but until yesterday; no sponsor had come to the federation’s rescue.

Last year, Rwanda Commercial Bank (BCR) was one of the sponsors after dressing the clubs.

"Their support came in handy last year but we are still not sure if they are on board this year,” RRF vice president Alex Araire told Times Sport yesterday.

Eight clubs including defending champions Remera Buffaloes, Gorillas, Lions de Fer, Kaduha Tigers, UNR Grizzlies, Sharks, Simba and Puma have registered for this year’s league.

It’s still unclear whether Kamonyi will take part in the league as they are yet to confirm their involvement. In the run in to the league, Buffaloes are hot favourites to retain the title.

The club who have beefed up their squad with a number of youngsters from their youth side have promised to knock off any challenges from Gorillas and UNR Grizzlies; the two strong contenders for the title.

"We won’t change the way we have been doing things. We have added a few youngsters in the side, who we hope to bank on to challenge for honours,” the club’s coach-player Gerard Nsenga said.

On top of their resonant domestic run, Buffaloes also enjoyed a successful 2008 season in the region. The club made a name in the region after impressive displays in Uganda and Kenya.

Buffaloes reached the Bowl Cup semi-finals in Uganda’s Hima-Mak 10s tournament before also reaching the semi-finals of the prestigious Priscloo Nakuru Sevens in Kenya.

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