Cricket Kenya heads off another player strike

A disappointing year for Kenyan cricket is ending on another sour note with news the country's women's team refused to play in the World Cup African Qualifyiers because of a dispute over money, although they subsequently backed down when Cricket Kenya refused to give way.

In July the senior men's side scrapped a tour of England after they went on strike over pay, and although the matter was subsequently resolved it cost Cricket Kenya £50,000 and untold goodwill.

Tom Sears, the board's chief executive, said the women announced on December 12, two days before the start of the tournament, they would not play unless they were paid, although he explained "common sense prevailed and the team has now unconditionally agreed to participate".

"It's important that all followers and stakeholders on Kenyan cricket are aware of all the facts following speculation appearing in the media, including the wholly untrue allegation that we have "abandoned" the Kenya women's team," Sears said. "The fact of the matter is that the players stated, for the first time, on Sunday they would not play unless they were paid to compete and we are not in a position to do that.

"I met personally with the squad to discuss this issue over a month ago and outlined exactly what the position was regarding payment and allowances. At that meeting the squad were satisfied that while we couldn't give them what they wanted we were doing everything we could to prepare them for this crucial event.

"Late last week the squad raised the issue again and after a series of meetings on December 10 where they were informed the situation had not changed, again they accepted the position and agreed to participate. Sadly over the weekend they have changed their position despite giving me their assurances which is extremely disappointing.

"From the time this issue was first raised we have consistently told the players we are not in a position to pay them to play so they could make an informed decision whether they could afford to be involved in terms of work and study commitments but also the financial considerations they would have to make.

"We appreciate the commitment the players make in order to represent their country and they have been told that from next year we will be able to review their allowances and work with them to make progress. After initially agreeing this was acceptable and a sensible way forward both a month ago and again last week they have now completely changed their stance.

"Cricket Kenya pays transport allowances for all matches and training sessions and provides meals, uniforms, facilities, equipment and professional coaches, the players were going to be given accommodation and all meals during the tournament but they wanted paying as well which we simply cannot afford to do at this time. We have invested a great deal of time and finance into preparing the squad for this event but we cannot be held to ransom like this just days before it is due to start.

"We have informed and consulted with representatives of the ICC, ACA and the Ministry of Sport and while they share our disappointment the way the squad has made this matter public and threatened to not compete, they are completely supportive of our stance."