Kamande bullish ahead of Ugandas ICC U-19 World Cup qualifier
After starting the ICC World cup under-19 Africa qualifiers on a high note, head coach Jimmy Kamande believes his side can defeat rivals Uganda in a much anticipated encounter on Tuesday at the Nairobi Gymkhana grounds.
Kenya started her campaign on a good note, first seeing off Ghana by 82 runs before blowing away Botswana by a massive seven wickets.
According to the coach, he prepared them well knowing whats ahead in the qualifiers as Africa will have only one representative in the world tournament next year.
-Power duo-
Coach Kamande’s side has hit headlines after registering good performances in their opening two matches, the good show attributed to selection of top-class batsmen. His lethal opening partnership of Aman Gandhi and Dennis Musyoka has registered a massive 180 runs in two matches, the highest in the tournament so far.
“I select the two because their are good, they are not the best but i pair them because they deliver results,” charged Kamande.
The 17-year old pair have been the highlight of the tournament so far with Gandhi named player of match in back to back outings since Saturday’s kick-off.
With only slot for an African team for the global competition, Kamande, 38, believes Kenya is up to the task to represent Africa.
“When you go for a fight you prepare to win. We will do all we can for the team to clinch top spot this time round.
“I’m telling them to enjoy themselves in this tournament, and get results,” the coach underscored.
Chasing 140 against Botswana, Gandhi knew he had to produce a moment of brilliance to outscore their opponent despite the team starting on a wrong footing in bowling.
“We started bowling poorly but the recovery to get them all out in such a low score is what gave us morale for the win,” The 17 year old Gandhi who has an impressive 145 runs in two matches commented.
Kenya will face rivals Uganda in their third qualifying match and its a must win for them with Gandhi looking to continue their good run of form.
“Tomorrow (Tuesday) is a big match for us and we are targeting a big score. We either defend well or chase the score and definitely looking at winning the game,” added Gandhi.
Kenya has four games to go and a win will edge them closer to qualifying for the World Cup next year.
Kenya has four games to go and a win will edge them closer to qualifying for the World Cup next year.
Want to send us a story? Submit on Wananchi Reporting on the Citizen Digital App or Send an email to wananchi@royalmedia.co.ke or Send an SMS to 25170 or WhatsApp on 0743570000
Comments
No comments yet.
Leave a Comment