Nigeria to make Africa Cup debut as seven countries confirm

Seven countries have so far confirmed their participation in next month's Africa Cricket Association Cup to be held in Nairobi.

The event to be held from February 18-28 is likely to see the competition's first ever West African participant, with Nigeria expected to make its debut.

Other entrants are South Africa, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. Malawi and Namibia has yet to confirm.

Nominations will close on January 25 with the draw made the following day. Teams will be split into two groups, which will compete in a round-robin. The top two teams from each group will then proceed to the semi-finals. The final will be held on February 27, with the 28th a reserve day.

South Africa, Zimbabwe and Kenya will field teams which will be a blend of their 'A' teams and development sides.

Lesotho has decided to withdraw, after the country's Sports Council decided the money would be better utilised on development.

Trans World International will send a crew to produce a package on the event, which will be shown during the ICC's Cricket Week.

The tournament will be sponsored by Kenyan brewer, Tusker.