Kenya v Sri Lanka: Kumar Sangakkara, Steve Tikolo, Thilan Samaraweera, Jimmy Kamande to star in ICC World Cup 2011
Kenya, who was the semi-finalist of 2003’s ICC World Cup, have been disappointing in this World Cup so far, as they were completely out-played in their first two games against http://www.senore.com/Cricket/New-Zealand-c754 and Pakistan respectively.
However, they take on http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Sri-Lanka-c758 in their next World Cup game at the R Premadasa Stadium, a team, who they defeated in that tournament. But that was a better Kenyan side that shocked the Lankan Lions at the Gymkhana Club Ground in Harare.
The conditions in Colombo have favoured the batsmen, as we have seen in the previous games at this particular stadium. The ball comes onto the bat nicely, as the pitch has even pace and bounce. Whoever wins the toss will opt to bat first on a batting friendly track. One thing is certain that willowers from both sides will relish the opportunity of batting first on this wicket.
Kumar Sangakkara
The Sri Lankan captain, Kumar Sangakkara, is a versatile batsman and his wide range of strokes makes him a difficult batsman to bowl at. He is difficult to tie down, as he scores his runs in difficult conditions against all opposition.
He is one of best pullers of a cricket ball. His pummelling pull is followed closely by an exquisite cut-shot. It doesn’t matter to him, whether he plays off a back-foot or front-foot, he is equally good.
However, he hasn’t recorded a century in global events and this is indeed a point to prove for him. In 23 World Cup games, the left-hander has collected 667 runs at 35 with a best of 92 against http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Canada-c748.
Thilan Samaraweera
Thilan Samaraweera was no way near a World Cup birth, as the Sri Lankan selectors feel that he is more of a Test match player and is too slow for the fifty-over version.
However, his ability to play under pressure and defiance to rescue his team from dire straits has led to his induction in the final eleven.
His One Day International record is always on the improving side, as he has racked up 771 runs at 26. His career strike-rate of 69 is indeed a worrying sign for his team and he will have to raise the tempo of his game in accordance with the pace of the limited overs format.
Thilan has been given chances in Sri Lanka’s first two games against http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Shahid-Afridi-c2482.
Steve Tikolo
Kenya’s favourite son, Steve Tikolo, will finally hang his boots after this showpiece event. Nevertheless, his experience in the side is invaluable and presence remains a key to the younger counterparts.
He hasn’t been able to make his mark in this tournament, as he recorded single digit scores in matches against Pakistan and New Zealand. A decent contribution from him will help his team to put on a good show against the visitors.
Jimmy Kamande
As a captain, Jimmy Kamande, has not been able to lead from the front, while posting identical scores of 2 in Kenya’s first two games. The Kenyan side need their captain to fire in the tournament if they have to gather some pride.
Kamande possesses a dismal record in mega events, scoring 33 runs at 8 with a best of 17. His poor record in global events is a serious thing to ponder upon, but a sparkling innings might set an example for his troops to follow.
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