Kenya upbeat ahead of cup tie

Kenya arrived in Namibia for their crucial Intercontinental Cup tie in an upbeat mood, despite the late withdrawal of Thomas Odoyo with a serious shoulder injury. He is likely to be out of action for about six to eight weeks.

Mudassar Nazar, the national coach, said they were well prepared and that all the players were in good physical and psychological form. But he was keen not to underestimate the Namibians. "In the last six months, Namibia has had the best exposure than any other African country in cricket and we are definitely not going to take them lightly. They will also have a strong home support and given the fact that they will also host the major finals in October, I'm sure they will give there best in the match to ensure they participate in the finals at their home turf. However we are prepared for all the threats."

The recent change in the leadership of the Kenyan Cricket Association had also been noted and had had a positive affect of the side. The new board organised a farewell dinner for the squad prior to their departure, the first time this had happened.

The winner of the tie will go through to the finals in October. With both sides level on 32 points, if the match is drawn then the African group will be decided on bonus points from this match.