NAIROBI, Kenya October 12- A batting collapse of epic proportions saw Kenya crash to a 91 run loss to Zimbabwe in their first One Day International (ODI) on Monday.
It was the kind of result Maurice Ouma and company were not hoping for after their last week’s loss in the Intercontinental Cup.
Zimbabwe who won the toss and elected to bat were put in a commanding position by Hamilton Masakadza whose score of 156 helped his side take a 1-0 lead in the series.
His opening stand of 121 with Mark Vermeulen repelled Kenya’s bowling attack for 26 overs before it was broken by Nehemiah Odhiambo who caught Vermeulen leg before.
Kenya’s form with the bat will be a major concern for new coach Eldine Baptiste who failed to see any of his charges get to even a half century.
The tourists were set a colossal target of 314 runs at the Harare Sports Club which turned out to a daunting task after the quick dismissal of David Obuya, Ragel Patel and Alex Obanda.
Former captain Steve Tikolo who time and time again has come to the rescue of his side came agonizingly close to reaching half century only to be dispatched by Graeme Cremer on 49 leaving Kenya leaving 143-6 in the 32nd over.
Jimmy Kamande’s typical rearguard effort failed to materialize after he was dismissed for 9 from 21 balls.
Kyle Jarvis was Kenya’s main destroyer as he took three wickets including getting David leg before.
Kenya hope to revive their chances in the series on Tuesday when the second ODI takes place.
