Under stormy skies, the 10th edition of the Rhino Cup drew to a dramatic close on yesterday evening, capping off three electrifying days of international cricket, conservation advocacy, and community spirit.
Held from June 20–22 at the picturesque Ol Pejeta Conservancy — home to over 200 rhinos and the world’s last two northern white rhinos — the 2025 tournament proved to be the most memorable yet.
In a twist worthy of sporting legend, the Rhino Cup Elite Division final between Meru Cricket Club and the formidable Ndovu Crushers ended in a dramatic tie after a storm forced the match to halt mid-innings. With the downpour refusing to let up, officials declared the match a draw, and the two top-tier titans shared the coveted Rhino Cup in a rare show of sporting unity.
“This year’s event has surpassed our expectations,” said Ken Kimani, Chief Commercial Officer at Ol Pejeta Conservancy. “The Rhino Cup has grown into a global spectacle, renowned not only for its competitive spirit but also for its charitable mission. All proceeds from the tournament will go towards rhino conservation efforts here at Ol Pejeta.”
In the Kifaru Cup, which features the intermediate tier, Hari Om Titans outclassed the competition with clinical precision and stormed their way to the title. The Sudan Smash, a social and community tier honoring the late Sudan—the last male northern white rhino—was clinched by crowd-favorites Nane Bora, who celebrated their win with traditional dances and jubilant chants.
The most unexpected twist of the weekend came in the Wooden Spoon Playoff, where host team Ol Pejeta Cricket Club finished last, earning the tongue-in-cheek “wooden spoon” to the delight of spectators and rival teams alike.
Robert Stevenson, Tournament Director, expressed pride in the tournament’s evolution: “We started with just a handful of teams. Now, in our 10th year, we’ve hosted 18 teams across three divisions. And next year, we’re going even bigger—with 24 teams, including a women’s division and teams of underprivileged youth from Laikipia and Nairobi. This tournament is about much more than cricket—it’s about opportunity, impact, and legacy.”
The fast-paced 10-over format added to the excitement, with quick retirements, strict bowling limits, and power-play overs keeping the games unpredictable and fan-friendly. Every team played three pool matches before the climactic Sunday finals and playoffs, ensuring no one left without a shot at glory.
The event concluded with the presentation of the Sudan Memorial Cup, awarded to the most generous donor team, reminding all present of the tournament’s conservation heart.