Cricket: Nairobi set for epic clash against Kisumu as both sides bolster squads for NCL T20 Tournament

Seated from left- NPCA Fixture secretary Vishal Bhojani, Manoj Patel Tournament Director and KalpeshSolanki Cricket development officer during the launch of Nairobi Cricket league at Ruaraka Sports Club, Sept 14, 2021. Standing behind are International players.[Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Zimbabwean international Chris Mpofu is set to lead Nairobi Hornbills against Kisumu Cranes in the inaugural edition of the Nairobi Cricket League (N.C.L) T20 tournament that gets underway at Ruaraka Sports Club on Wednesday morning.

Mpofu is set to bowl out first for his side that is looking for glory in the tournament.

"I will make the best use of the experience gained in the national team for 16 years," Mpofu told Standard Sports.

It's the third time that the 35-year old is visiting the country having contested against Kenya in 2009 and  2011 with the Zimbabwe national team.

"Apart from dreaming to lift the trophy, I'm hoping to see some good cricket played on the field," said Mpofu.

On the other side, Kisumu will be steered by another Zimbabwean ex international, Tino Tenda Mawoyo who is also 35.

Mawoyo brings to Kisumu a wealth of experience having featured for the national team from 2006-2016.

"I will be the opening batsman, I'm looking forward to an enjoyable tournament," said Mawoyo.

"I'm also here to mentor young athletes apart from playing the game."

It's the first time that Mawoyo is visiting Kenya.

Mawoyo is best remembered for having staged a mighty show against Pakistan, scoring 163 not out for Zimbabwe in Bulawayo in 2011.

From left- International cricket players Nevile Madziva, John Nyumbu, Shingira Masakadza, Christopher Mpofu, Fostea Mutizwa and Elton Chigumbura during the launch of Nairobi Cricket league at Ruaraka Sports Club, Sept 14, 2021.[Jonah Onyango, Standard]

The round-robin tournament runs from September 15- 26.

It will involve six teams namely: Eldoret Hawks, Nakuru Flamingoes, Nairobi Hornbills, Mombasa Eagles, Machakos Vultures and Kisumu Cranes.

Winners will bag Sh200,000, runners-up Sh150,000, man of the match Sh5000, while best bowler, fielder and batsman will each walk away with Sh20,000.