Cricket: Simba Premier League set for return
Cricket lovers in Kenya will be thrilled by news that the second edition of Simba Premier League is set for return once clearance is given by authorities.
Tournament organisers said the league that is slated for September 10-19 is meant to bring back the game after it was halted by a series of court battles and the novel coronavirus pandemic.
Organisers have put out a schedule that will see six franchises involving players from the national team, select clubs, and former internationals from Uganda, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, India and Pakistan, all who have confirmed participation.
The tournament that will see matches played on round robin basis will be broadcasted and planned for Ruaraka Sports Club.
The six teams are Amboseli Hirani Telkom, Kilimanjaro Daman Ganga, Mara Texas Alarms, Samburu Prime Tanks, Serengeti Dezo Construction and Tsavo Glory Hotels.
Top local former and current internationals like Jimmy Kamande, Maurice Ouma, Shem Ngoche, Rushab Patel, Elijah Otieno and Nelson Odhiambo will be captains in the playing franchises.
Speaking during the launch of the tournament yesterday in Nairobi, committee member Thomas Odoyo revealed all preparations were already in place and were constantly in touch with Health officials regarding the status of Covid-19 and resumption of sports.
Tournament director Manoj Patel revealed that at least five Indian Premier League players will be gracing the event.
“We have confirmation from stars like Sidharth Trivedi of Rajasthan Royals, Paul Chandrasekhar Valtharty of Punjab Kings, Assad Ullah Khan of Royal Challengers Bangalore alongside Shadab Jakti and Manpreet Sigh Gony,” said Patel.
We wanted as much as possible to spice up this event and professionalise it as well.”
