Rwanda’s cricket governing body, RCA has warned local clubs that it will go by the International Cricket Council (ICC) One Day International (ODI) rules when the 2008 Sulfo league throws off this Sunday.

The move is aimed at preparing local players for international matches.

Although Rwanda reached the semi-finals of the 2008 ICC World Cricket League Division 3 tournament, it is urged that she would have gone all the way.

"In ODI games, players have to be at their best both physically and mentally. Unfortunately, our players did not have the physical aptitude in South Africa because they hardly play 50-over games here," one RCA official who preferred anonymity said.

"So this year’s Sulfo league will mark a new era of 50-over tournaments with the exception of 20/20 tournaments," the official continued.

Meanwhile, four-time record winners Kigali Cricket Club and Right Guards will not feature in the league unless they clear up their club dues. According to the association, the clubs have to pay up by the end of today or else, they risk being excluded from the lucrative league.

Challengers are the defending champions after ousting Young Tigers in last year’s Sulfo league final.

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