Cricket Kenya terminates AOS agreement ahead of CK T20 League launch
Cricket Kenya has officially scrapped its partnership with India-Dubai–based firm Arena of Sports (AOS), citing serious governance violations and regulatory non-compliance that rendered the planned CK T20 League untenable. The annnouncement, made on September 10, has thrown the highly anticipated league into disarray just weeks before its scheduled launch on November 7, 2025.
The decision adds another chapter to a turbulent period for the national cricket body, as it continues to grapple with internal strife, leadership battles, and ongoing credibility challenges.
“Grave breaches” and lack of ICC approval force CK T20 League shutdown
The CK T20 League, promoted as Kenya’s answer to the IPL with six planned franchises—including the Nairobi Challengers, Simba Royals, and Kisumu Tuskers—has been abruptly shelved after AOS failed to meet compliance requirements.
“On 10 September 2025, the board, by majority resolution, terminated its agreement with AOS citing severe reputational damage and grave breaches of governance including attempts to improperly influence Board members through financial inducements and external pressure,” said CEO Ronald Bukusi.
The partnership had promised a KSh255 million investment over five years, high-profile cricket ambassadors, and international players. However, a breakdown in trust and repeated procedural violations forced the board’s hand.
Adding to the complications, Cricket Kenya never received the required No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the ICC.
“Approval from the ICC has not been forthcoming. The proposed tournament does not meet the ICC’s criteria for a sanctioned domestic event, and without an NOC, it constitutes disapproved cricket,” Bukusi confirmed.
Cricket Kenya refuses refund, hints at new sponsor
Cricket Kenya also confirmed that AOS will not receive a refund for its initial $25,000 payment, citing contractual clauses that justify the retention of the amount.
“That amount falls within our contractual framework, and no reimbursement is due,” Bukusi stated.
Despite the collapsed deal, there was a hint of optimism from the board:
“We are pleased to announce that a new sponsorship partner, fully aligned with governance principles, will be unveiled shortly,” a statement read.
Bukusi added a word of caution against flashy, unrealistic projections:
“We’re looking at possibly a new partner coming in. We want people to play cricket. What’s glossy about this whole tournament is the figures being bandied about—200 million, 300 million. I love that. But is it practical? Is it authentic? Is it real? That’s the question.”
Leadership rift continues to divide Cricket Kenya
The AOS fallout is the latest episode in what has been a year of governance instability at Cricket Kenya. In July, the board removed former chairman Manoj Patel, citing audit issues and irregular conduct. However, Patel and treasurer Kennedy Obuya proceeded to launch the league publicly on August 27, intensifying internal divisions.
In response, the board reaffirmed its authority:
“Contrary to recent assertions, there is no entity known as a Supreme Council in Cricket Kenya. The Council of Membership convenes annually and does not possess administrative, operational, or financial authority. Powers rest solely with the Cricket Kenya Board, as outlined in Article 8 of our Constitution.”
Kenya’s Ministry of Sports has also weighed in, with the Cabinet Secretary emphasizing the urgent need for systemic reform and responsible leadership.
“The Cabinet Secretary at yesterday’s meeting reminded us that governance must remain at the core, and Cricket Kenya has had a history we’re now trying to straighten.”
New ethics committee announced to improve internal governance
As part of its efforts to restore credibility, Cricket Kenya announced the formation of an Internal Disputes and Ethics Committee, expected to be operational within seven days. The goal: to tackle internal conflicts, promote transparency, and implement stronger oversight measures.
With the Arena of Sports partnership dissolved and a potential new sponsor on the horizon, Cricket Kenya stands at a crossroads — seeking to rebuild institutional trust while still aspiring to launch a high-profile domestic T20 league.
Whether the CK T20 League can be revived under new management remains uncertain. But for now, the focus is on restoring order, enforcing governance standards, and protecting the future of Kenyan cricket.
