Sharad Ghai appointment likely to fuel flames of unrest

As expected, Jimmy Rayani, has stepped down from his position as Kenya Cricket Association (KCA) chairman to pursue his role as a director of the ICC executive board. Sharad Ghai, the current fixtures secretary, has taken over from Rayani.

Ghai is the man identified by those opposing the KCA as being to blame for many of the ills blighting Kenyan cricket. His appointment is unlikely to do anything to bring the factions closer together. It might do some good, however, in that it could bring matters to a head sooner rather than later.

The KCA is looking increasingly isolated, with the majority of grass-roots Kenyan club sides opposed to what they claim is an undemocratic and poorly-run board. The government is also thought to be growing increasingly concerned at the way the KCA is run.

Last week, the anti-board faction retained total control of the Coast Cricket Association, the second most powerful group in Kenya behind the Nairobi Provincial Cricket Association. Samir Inamdar, the chairman, and his associates were unanimously re-elected, although three clubs allied to the KCA boycotted the meetings.