Fieldhouse hit by strike shock

CRICKET:

BAMFORD Fieldhouse officials are still reeling after Kenya pulled out of their match against Saddleworth League and Central Lancashire League professionals due to a pay dispute.

The Kenyans remained on home soil after going on strike, which led to the cancellation of the eagerly-anticipated encounter, which was to be hosted by Bamford.

It is believed a deputation led by former national side players, claiming to represent the wishes of current squad members, tried to re-negotiate terms ahead of their short tour of England.

The situation has thrown Kenya’s World Cricket League Division One tournament in Holland into turmoil.

Bamford chairman Andy Barton said: “I’m led to believe the strike is to do with money. It could go on for some time.

“I am very disappointed this has happened because a lot of hard work had gone on at the club to get ready for the match.

“Obviously the people who were going to come along and watch will feel let down as well.

“We have discussed the possibility of re-arranging the fixture, but due to the unpredictable nature of the strike, it’s hard to say when we will be able to do it.

“It could be the case that we wait until next season.”

Cricket Kenya has questioned the timing of the strike and blasted those involved for making the matter public.

An official Cricket Kenya statement said: "Cricket Kenya regards this conduct by these 'players' representatives' as outrageous and disgraceful.

“Having regard to the gratuitously offensive nature of the allegations made and the questionable agenda of the former players involved, the Cricket Kenya Board unanimously resolved not to engage with these 'player representatives' any further.

“The player representatives concerned had no authority whatsoever to go public in this way.

“They are neither accredited formally by the players nor are they part of a properly registered players’ association.

“Their sole function was to negotiate terms with Cricket Kenya on behalf of the players.

“The players' contracts specifically forbid any player from engaging with the press and to criticise the national board.

“It is plain that their real motive was intended solely to undermine and embarrass Cricket Kenya.”