Unwell Canadians forfeit ODI
The ICC is looking into circumstances which led to today's ODI between Kenya and Canada at Mombasa being called off
Martin Williamson
20-Jan-2007
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The match was cancelled last night after Canadian officials requested a meeting with Javagal Srinath, the ICC tournament referee, where they informed him that their squad had been hit by an illness which meant they were unable to field a full side. At least five players were said to be laid low by what a local doctor diagnosed as a viral stomach condition and, although Srinath is believed to have suggested that the Canadians wait until the morning before making a decision, this idea was rejected. Kenyan and Scottish team representatives also attended the meeting.
The Canadians only arrived in Mombasa on Monday after a 24-hour journey, and the difference in the conditions between the sub-zero temperatures in Canada and the intense heat of Kenya will have taken a toll. They also endured a long afternoon in the field on Thursday when they lost to Scotland. Furthermore, it is reported that at least one of their squad is injured and will not be fit to play until the start of the World Cricket League.
Early reports had indicated that some of the Kenyans were also unwell, but a spokesman for them team denied that and said all 15 players were fit and ready to play. However, Cricinfo has learned that two of the Scotland side and Ian Gould, the umpire, were also treated by a local doctor and were believed to be suffering from the same viral illness.
The cancellation is a bitter disappointment to the organisers who, with it being a weekend, had been expecting a bumper crowd. At least 16 schools were understood to be busing in children to watch the match.
Canada forfeited the match, handing a win and four points to Kenya who extend their lead at the top of the table. Kenya face Scotland in the fourth match tomorrow, and organisers said that game would go ahead as scheduled.