Gulf and Africa Cups postponed

Two major international tournaments for non-Test countries scheduled to start in the next fortnight have both been postponed following organisational problems.

The Inter-Gulf Cup, due to commence this weekend, and the Africa Cricket Association, slated for a February 18 start, have both been delayed.

Officials of the Saudi Arabia Cricket Association were only advised yesterday of the second postponement of the Inter-Gulf Cup, believed to be caused by a wrangle with the tournament's major sponsor.

The sponsor is understood to have 'requested' the delay to March to maximise potential exposure.

With the Cup due to start this weekend, the postponement causes big head-aches for its 90-odd amateur players and officials from six countries, who will now have to seek leave from their employers for the third time in three months.

It was originally intended to be held in January, and as now, was deferred to February at the sponsor's request.

In Nairobi, a combination of lack of response from Africa Cricket Association member countries and preparations for this year's ICC Knockout have caused the postponement of the ACA Cup until August.

When nominations closed in late January, only South Africa, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Zambia, Tanzania and the host Kenya had submitted entries.

Officials felt rescheduling may give other countries more time to organise themselves.

Also, the International Cricket Council has taken over the Nairobi Gymkhana grounds to prepare them for the ICC Knockout later this year.