African Premier League launches in Kenya

Domestic cricket in Kenya is set to return with the African Premier League beginning this Thursday in Nairobi.

The tournament at the Ruaraka Sports Club will run over sixteen days, featuring a double round-robin phase and a finals weekend, with the winner crowned on April 10. The tournament is organised by the Nairobi Provincial Cricket Association, an affiliate of Cricket Kenya.

Six teams will take part in the tournament, representing various counties in the country: Nairobi Lions, Thika Hippos, Eldoret Elephants, Nakuru Leopards, Mombasa Rhinos, and Kisumu Pythons.

African Premier League action starts this week (Supplied)

The tournament gives domestic players and Kenyan national players the first tournament cricket since the outbreak of Covid-19, providing match practice for upcoming T20 World Cup qualifying and Challenge League action. Kenya are slated to play in Jersey in Challenge League Group B, having last played in the competition back in December 2019.

The African Premier League is not outside Kenyan Covid restrictions, with a comprehensive set of rules and protocols laid down by the Association. No spectators will be allowed at the venue, with officials on hand to prevent further issues.

You’re reading Emerging Cricket — brought to you by a passionate group of volunteers with a vision for cricket to be a truly global sport, and a mission to inspire passion to grow the game.

Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, please subscribe for regular updates, and follow EC on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Don’t know where to start? Check out our features list, country profiles, and subscribe to our podcast.

Support us from US$2 a month — and get exclusive benefits, by becoming an EC Patron.

Daniel Beswick

Co-founder and one of our #ECPod hosts, Daniel is currently helping on ICC's coverage via their digital client. Daniel has also commentated and presented on ICC.tv broadcasts for pathway events since 2019, and in a rare feat called action at both USA vs PNG and Namibia vs Oman ODI matches at WCL2 2019 on the same day. Daniel has also been a member of WBBL/BBL and Olympic productions at Channel 7, also supporting commentators and on-air talent for the network’s coverage.