The Kenya Simbas final two Currie Cup matches have been shelved owing to financial constraints.
The Simbas were due to play Valke on Saturday and SWD Eagles next weekend at the RFUEA grounds but lack of a sponsor and government support will see the side not honour the two matches.
Speaking on Friday, Kenya Rugby Union chairman Sasha Mutai said they tried everything they could to have the 15s side play but lack of funds proved a huge challenge.
"We have no sponsor and so we sought government intervention and revenue from broadcast rights but nothing came through. We had no option but to call off the matches,” said Mutai.
Mutai added that the relationship with the South African Rugby Union (SARU) is still strong despite the two matches being shelved.
“We are talking to them. They understand the challenges we are facing and I am confident these teething problems we are facing will not be there when we play in the competition again in a year's time," observed Mutai.
Mutai was, however, pleased with the Simbas' performances in the competition despite a slow start.
Simbas are currently placed seventh in the standings with 12 points after two wins, 30-26 over Border Bulldogs and a 48-7 demolition of Zimbabwe Goshawks in Nakuru last week.
“Credit to the boys despite the myriad of challenges we faced. They have put in commendable performances and it shows that, with the right investment, we can be up there challenging the top provincial sides in South Africa," added Mutai.
The players' two-month allowances will be sorted by next week according to the chairman.
Speaking separately, team manager Jimmi Mnene said the boys will regroup and prepare for the international test matches in July.
"Naturally the boys are disappointed. It's out of our control but we soldier on and live to fight another day. We look forward to the internationals starting in July," said Mnene.
The news is another devastating blow to the Kenyan game, coming just a week after Kenya Sevens side, Shujaa, were relegated from the World Sevens Series in London.
