Once again, it was Kenya A's batting that let the side down. One positive was that we were able to put on about 60 more runs than in the first match, and at least this time we used most of the overs. Batting first, Kenya A reached 161 in 46 of the alloted 50 overs, with the two main contributors Maurice Ouma (37)and Nehemiah Odhiambo (33). Sadly, neither of these two were able to go on to make a big score, and no one else offered much resistance. It would have looked even worse had not Denmark generously donated 40 extras to the cause!
In reply, the hosts made it look easy, knocking off the runs in just 25 overs. Jadavji Bhimji did take 2/31 off 6, but on the whole Kenya A never threatened the Danes at all. Half Centuries from J Malcom Hansen and Hamad Zaman showing the Kenyans how it should be done, just as Freddy Klokker did in the first match. In a way, it is a relief that Denmark did not win the toss and bat first. I don't like to think what the score may have looked like had Klokker had another go at us.
Obviously this has been a learning experience for the team. They now know what the rigours of touring are like, and they also know how much they need to improve if they are going to be considered for a spot in the national side. I will post the scorecards for both matches in the next couple of days, but be warned, they don't make pleasant reading.
The team should have at least one more match against club opposition before they return home, so hopefully can at least use this to restore some confidence. I hope Kenya's next match against international opposition goes better, but with the national team hosting Bangladesh, I cannot say I am that confident. Still, the great thing about cricket is that you never know. Fingers crossed eh!
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