Cherono keen to spur KCB to KVF league glory

KCB’s newly signed outside hitter Mercy Cherono/ HANDOUTMercy Cherono is determined to turn individual brilliance into team success at KCB Women after joining the bankers from Kenya Prisons ahead of the 2026/2027 Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) National League season.

The 23-year-old outside hitter, named the league’s Best Outside Hitter for the 2025/2026 campaign, hopes to help KCB challenge for domestic honours after earning individual recognition at Prisons.

Cherono said she was happy to have secured the move after initially deciding to remain at Prisons, bringing an end to a period of uncertainty.

“I had decided a while back to remain in Prisons. It mixed me up. It even got to the commissioner. I am happy to have ended up here. I look forward to what is in store for me at this club,” she said.

Her arrival comes as KCB rebuild their squad following the departure of four key players to defending champions Kenya Pipeline. The quartet comprises libero Josephine Kataa, outside/opposite hitter Faith Cherotich, and middle blockers Pauline Chemtai and Sharon Serem.

KCB have also lost setter Esther Mutinda, who has been linked with a move to Rwanda, while opposite hitter Terry Tata is reportedly considering a professional opportunity in Turkey.

Cherono’s attacking ability will be crucial as KCB seek to remain competitive against a strengthened Pipeline side.

The departures follow a challenging end to last season, when KCB finished third in the National League playoffs before losing 3-2 to Pipeline in the Mozzart Kenya Cup final at Kasarani Indoor Arena in July.

Coach Japheth Munala has acknowledged the challenge but believes the changes will create opportunities for other players to step up.

“It’s unfortunate that we have lost many players to our rivals, but that’s the nature of sport. It’s a big number and, of course, some of the players’ absence will be felt. But, on the flip side, fringe players will get an opportunity to play,” Munala said.

Pipeline’s new signings will compete alongside established players, including national team middle blockers Marian Sokoiyo and Gladys Ekaru, as they pursue another title.

The 2026/2027 KVF National League is scheduled to begin on November 14-15, with 16 men’s teams and 10 women’s teams expected to compete.

For Cherono, the challenge will be to build on her individual success and help KCB mount a sustained challenge for silverware.

KPC won the title in style with straight-set victories of 25-22, 25-23 and 25-22

Prisons drew first blood on Friday, winning the opening encounter 3-1 at the Kasarani Indoor Arena.