ECB disappointed at Kent decision

The England and Wales Cricket Board has been informed by Cricket Australia that Kent, Twenty20 Cup runners-up, will not receive an invitation to the proposed Champions League event in 2008.

Both the ECB and Kent are bitterly disappointed at this stance as Kent had offered various solutions aimed at overcoming the objections of the organisers, such as not to include players who had taken part in unauthorised cricket in their squad.

With Kent's full knowledge the ECB offered Essex as an alternative county to play in the Champions League as Essex were beaten by Kent in the Twenty20 Cup semi-final.

However, this suggestion was also rejected by the organisers.

The ECB has written to the organisers confirming that, subject to contract, the board has approved the participation of Middlesex, the Twenty20 Cup winners on the proviso that the event is authorised and on agreed terms.

The ECB has also requested and is awaiting confirmation of the regulations for this event from the organisers.