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“THIS IS FOR THE WHOLE BAHRAIN RFC COMMUNITY” – JOSH DRAIN REFLECTS ON LANDMARK SEASON AHEAD OF HISTORIC WEEKEND

Middle East

A season of determination, unity and top-class performance has brought Bahrain RFC to the brink of history.

This weekend, the teams will take centre stage in regional rugby as both their 1st XV and 2nd XV teams compete in finals, with a shot at making club history by lifting two major trophies on the same day.

After a dramatic 29-21 semi-final victory over Abu Dhabi Harlequins, the 1st XV have earned their place in the West Asia Super Rugby final.

They’ll be joined in the spotlight by the 2nd XV, who have reached the Super 2s Cup final after beating Dubai Exiles 30-22.

As the official kit supplier, Kukri Sports is proud to have supported the teams throughout their campaign, providing performance-driven kit built for the demands of rugby and other sports at the club.

Kukri ambassador and first XV star Josh Drain, who has featured at both fly-half and full-back this season, knows just how much this means to everyone involved.

“It’s very exciting. Reaching the final is a huge achievement, not just for us as players, but for the whole Bahrain RFC community.”

The squad’s journey to this point has been powered by a strong collective spirit and relentless preparation, having won all twelve of their games so far this season as they head into the final against Dubai Hurricanes.

“We’ve built a really tight-knit group that fights for each other and stays together under pressure.

“We’ve had to overcome a few challenges – injuries, tough fixtures, long away days – but the way the boys have stepped up and delivered every time says a lot about the character of this squad.

“The coaches and support staff have also been outstanding in preparing us week in, week out,” Drain said.

For Drain, a key player in the team, it’s also been a season of personal growth as he continues to transition to a different climate.

“It’s been a great experience for me personally. I’ve learned a lot, grown in confidence and had the chance to really challenge myself in some big moments.

“Playing with this group has definitely brought the best out of me.”

Ahead of the final, Drain admitted the group are fully focused on the task ahead and knows what is required of them.

“We know it’s going to be tough, but we’ve prepared well and back ourselves. It’s just about sticking to what we do best and embracing the moment.”

“Finals are often decided by small margins, so we’ll need to be clinical when chances come and stay cool under pressure.

“If we stick to our systems and keep our discipline, we’ll give ourselves every chance.”

Beyond rugby, Bahrain RFC have enjoyed a standout year across multiple sports. The men’s senior football team lifted the Diogo Pires Cup Final trophy, while their netball sides also delivered exceptional results – with the Division 1 and 2 teams both finishing as runners-up, and the Division 3 team claiming the championship title.

Throughout the season, the players have been backed by Kukri as the club’s official kit supplier, whose performance-focused kit has supported the team every step of the way.

“The kit from Kukri has been good all season. It’s built for performance, lightweight, durable and designed to move with you, which really makes a difference during high-intensity games.

“It’s great to be representing a brand that genuinely supports the team,” Drain added.

Kobus Cronje, Middle East Sales Manager at Kukri Sports, said “We’re very proud of what Bahrain RFC has achieved this season, not just in rugby, but across all their sporting teams.

“To see both rugby teams reach their respective finals is a testament to the club’s depth and culture. It’s been a privilege to support them with high-performance kit that matches their ambition, and we’ll be cheering them on as they go for a historic double.”

Looking ahead, Drain believes this season could be the start for even greater things to come.

“The future is really bright for Bahrain RFC. We’ve got a great culture, strong leadership and a growing base of young talent coming through.

“I’d love to see us build on this momentum and keep pushing the standards even higher, both locally and across the region.”

As the club prepares for a potentially historic weekend, the stage is set – and Bahrain RFC is ready to rise to the occasion.

Kukri Sports wishes both teams and its ambassador, Josh Drain, the best of luck ahead of a crucial weekend.

Find out more about Bahrain RFC.

Find out more about our ambassador Josh Drain.