Photo by Malik ;From Left Cricket Kenya Treasurer Mr Kennedy Obuya, Center is Mr Michael Riwa on the Right Cricket Kenya Chairperson Mr Manoj Patel
By Erick Wanjala
As Kenya’s cricket is at a make-or-break moment 21 counties earlier yesterday jointly issued a resolution to revive the sport, signaling a new dawn for one of Kenya’s most promising games. The promise of a new T20 league, fresh investment, and renewed ambitions offer hope. The Once a continental powerhouse, having reached the semi-finals of the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, Kenyan cricket has since suffered a steep decline, plagued by poor management, underfunding, and internal disputes. Despite the turmoil, stakeholders — including former players, sports officials, and private sponsors — are pushing for a revival that could breathe new life into the sport.
The sound of applause at a stadium may well depend not merely on how many sixes are hit, but on whether Kenya Cricket Chairperson Manor Patel can get its own house in order first.
"This resolutions shall be the turning point we are implementing them as of now faithfully, and soon we shall have a vice chair person and restore again the world-class cricketers Kenya was known for,” said Council Representatives Mr Michael Riwa.
Sports analysts say the wrangles have cost Kenya valuable ground, as emerging cricketing nations like Namibia and Uganda continue to rise. “The leadership issues have denied young players exposure, training, and international competition. Without unity at the top, Kenya cannot reclaim its place in world cricket,” said a former national team captain.
Despite these challenges, a new wave of optimism is growing. The Ministry of Sports, in partnership with the International Cricket Council (ICC), has initiated dialogue with local officials to end the impasse and chart a way forward. Private academies across Nairobi, Kisumu, and Mombasa are also nurturing fresh talent, with hopes of feeding into a restructured national system.
Corporate sponsors, too, are beginning to show interest. Safaricom and other firms have hinted at backing cricket tournaments if governance issues are resolved. In addition, there are proposals to strengthen school and university cricket leagues to rebuild the sport from the grassroots.
Sports Cabinet Secretary has urged Cricket Kenya officials to put aside their personal interests. “Kenyan cricket has potential. We cannot let internal squabbles deny our youth a chance to shine on the global stage,” stated CS Mvurya
While the wrangles continue to cast a shadow, the determination of players, coaches, and supporters offers a glimmer of hope. If unity and reforms prevail, Kenya could soon see a resurgence of the sport that once made the country a household name in world cricket.
Comments