Clubs appeal KRU’s decision to cancel season due to coronavirus

Kenya Rugby Union chairman Oduor Gangla [COURTESY]

Kenya Rugby Union chairman Oduor Gangla has confirmed receiving an appeal from Kenya Cup sides following the cancelation of the 2019/2020 season due to coronavirus.

Gangla, who acknowledged clubs had a right to appeal, explained the issues would be taken into consideration by the fixtures committee.

“It will be considered by the Fixtures Committee of the Board who are mandated to deal with local competitions matters,” said the KRU chair.

On Thursday, April 9, 2020, the Union resorted to canceling the season following the rising COVID-19 cases in the country, which brought a standstill to nearly all sporting disciplines globally.

The KRU Chairman @Oduorgangla
clarifies on the cancellation of the 2019/2020 15s league, in an interview with the @Y254Channel https://t.co/bfgJeAeFZc

— Kenya Rugby (@OfficialKRU) April 11, 2020

The cancellation meant there would be no Promotion or Relegation fixtures, and all teams would remain in their present divisions.

“We are in challenging times with the worldwide breakout of the Novel Corona Virus.  This has caused untold disruption and presented us with a very challenging environment. Sporting activities have not been spared from its debilitating impact. This situation has affected our way of life meaning no training, rugby events or matches are feasible in the foreseen future. At the point of disruption, the leagues were at the playoff stages and none of the leagues had qualified winners. The KRU Board is particularly aware of the impact on clubs, sponsors and fans with the potential to be promoted or win competitions,” KRU said.

Black Blad's Jerry Indusa (left) is challenged by Steve Wamae and Stafford Abekah (rigt) of KCB during Enterprise Cup match at KCB Grounds at Ruaraka on Saturday March 7. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

The Union also explained before the tough decision to cancel the season was arrived at, several options were explored, with a comprehensive consensus reached.

“This decision is not intended to in any way diminish the games that have already taken place or the efforts of everyone involved. A range of options were explored, as far as possible and a broad consensus was reached across the game as to the most appropriate outcome. But in the end, we have had to make the decision to ensure we play our part in safeguarding lives,” KRU explained.

The Union also advised supporters to observe COVID-19 protection protocols, asking everyone to stay safe as the world tries to contain the virus.

In Kenya, As of 2:00 pm, Tuesday, April 14, 2020, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases had risen to 208, with 40 reported recoveries and 9 deaths.