Kenyans hunt for second victory against Singapore

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Kenya will today clash with Singapore in their fourth match of ongoing the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cricket League Division Three at Al Amarat Cricket Stadium in Muscat, Oman. 

The victory-starved Kenyans will be hoping to build on Tuesday’s six-wicket victory over Uganda that ended their losing streak in the 50 overs challenge.

Team captain Shem Ngoche said the victory boosted their confidence going into their remaining two matches against Singapore today and Denmark on Sunday. 

“We needed to win for us to rebuild our confidence. It has not been easy for us because we have suffered one heartbreak after another but this victory has helped us regain our lost self-belief and confidence,” Ngoche said.

He added that winning their last two encounters was not an option.

“Going forward, we just have to win because we are playing for Kenya and we must save our country’s image,” said Ngoche.

Kenya will be seeking the crucial victory against a side they know too well having played them last year in Nairobi in a series of friendly matches.

In their previous encounter, a Kenya Select side beat Singapore by 41 runs at Jaffrey’s Sports Club Nairobi. 

Teach coach Lameck Onyango will be hoping his charges maintain the momentum that saw the duo of wicketkeeper Irfan Karim and all-rounder Nelson Mandela hit the team’s half tons in the tournament.

Karim, who also won the man-of-the-match accolade, smashed 59 runs. 

He will also be expecting brilliant performances from youngster Sachin Bhudia, who has been in top form proving his worth on his debut in the senior competition.

Bhudia has been key for Kenya, featuring in all the three matches against Oman, USA and Uganda despite being a rookie. 

However, Onyango will be demanding more from opening batsman Alex Obanda, who has not been impressive.

Eyes will be on Obanda to stabilise Kenya’s innings and score more runs. Dhiren Gondaria and Rakep Patel will also be looking to outsmart Singapore bowlers.

In another tie, homeboys Oman will face off with USA in the battle for the top spot.