Ruaraka becomes Nairobi's second ODI venue

The ICC has confirmed that the Ruaraka ground in Nairobi will be allowed to stage full ODIs.

Chris Broad inspected the venue on behalf of the ICC earlier in the year but his report recommended that some work needed to be done to the changing-rooms and scoreboard before it could be considered suitable to host major matches. Those issues have now been resolved.

The news means that two of the three grounds (Ruaraka and Nairobi Gymkhana) scheduled to host matches in the World Cricket League have now been passed by the ICC. The third, Nairobi Jaffery has its inspection on January 7 and the only question mark seems to be over the state of the outfield.

"The umpires facilities have already been dealt with and are in an acceptable state," said a local source. "A lot of work has gone into preparing this venue and over 250 tonnes of sand have been used to level it. Much of the outfield has been replanted in an effort to ensure an even growth of grass." The source said that the authorities were confident it will be approved.

The news is another boost after Mombasa was awarded full ODI status in August.